Najib Hardaway died in car accident? Shaker Heights mourns teacher’s death, fact-checks traffic accident claims

Superintendent Dr. David Glassner announced Hardaway’s death to family and staff, according to WKYC. Hardaway was remembered as “an outstanding educator who cared deeply about his students.”

Glassner further wrote, “He was a Shaker Heights graduate and a beloved faculty member who was viewed as a leader by his colleagues. Mr. Hardaway was a treasured member of our Lomond and Shaker Heights school communities both inside and outside the classroom. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.”

ALSO READ | Judge Eleanor Ross’ husband: Five things to know about Brian Ross in the backroom sex scandal involving Atlanta police officer Kelly Collier

Hardaway died at University Hospitals Medical Center in Cleveland, local publications said, citing records from the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office. He was 26 years old that year.

Now, news has emerged that Hardaway was involved in a car accident that killed him. “The district had to rush counselors to an elementary school the next day after a 26-year-old fourth-grade teacher was killed in a car crash,” a post on X read.

Ohio residents also wrote On Facebook “Have you heard of Najee Hardaway? The 26 year old 4th grade Shock teacher who recently passed away in a car accident? To my noble Euclid family, that was Mr. Hardaway’s son. I knew it was Mr. Hardaway as soon as I saw his smile. So sad. May he rest in peace. Mr. Hardaway (Steve) had a huge impact on my life. I believe he raised a wonderful son. Praying for his family, work community, and students.”

Here’s what you need to know about the cause of Najee Hardaway’s death.

“Nagy Hardaway Car Crash? A now-deleted ‘Forever Remembered’ erroneous post claimed that Najee Stephen Hardaway was involved in a car accident. Many are saddened by the sudden death of a beloved Ohio teacher, but a now-deleted ‘Forever Remembered’ post that appeared to be incorrectly titled “Nagy Hardaway Obituary Cleveland Ohio Car Crash…” caused confusion,” the page states.

It added, “While some local obituaries attributed his death to a tragic traffic accident in Cleveland, local news outlets (including WKYC) and school district officials have only confirmed that the 26-year-old Shaker Heights elementary school teacher and former College of Wooster basketball star died on Monday, May 24, 2026, at University Hospitals Medical Center in Cleveland.”

To be sure, authorities have not officially confirmed Hardaway died in the crash. Latest reports indicate the cause of death was not immediately available.