Popular teacher dies in car crash on E. Seneca Turnpike after hitting telephone poles

MANLIUS, NY — A popular teacher in the Fayetteville-Manlius School District has died after he crashed into several telephone poles and tipped over in the 8800 block of E. Seneca Turnpike Saturday morning, according to Manlius police.

Officers arrived at the scene at approximately 8:38 a.m. and found a 2023 Toyota Camry traveling westbound had left the roadway. The driver was identified as David Engel, 48, of Manlius.

In a letter to high school families, Principal Patrick J. McNamara echoed the words of a colleague who, according to McNamara, knew Engel best.

“Dave is able to successfully teach all children because, above all, he understands who they are: people who deserve respect and want to know that they are noticed and cared for. He has a sense of who children are and what they need from him, creating a classroom community that fosters each child's development. But that's not all. In addition to teaching regular English classes, Dave also teaches our drama classes and is responsible for staging the fall play, as well as leading the Improv Club and Thespians Club. He works tirelessly to ensure that every student who wants to try acting has a chance. He never turns any child away from pursuing their dream and gives them all a safe space to grow and challenge themselves without fear of criticism.”

Fayetteville-Manlius High School will be open for counseling on Sunday evening, August 25th, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Engel was treated at Upstate Hospital before being pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the Saturday morning crash.

Manlius Police ask anyone with further information to call them at 315-682-2212.