McKeesport bar to honor employee killed in 5-car crash

Danielle (Dani) Jackman worked part-time as a cook at Smitty’s Place.

For the MVI

The victim in a deadly crash in Pittsburgh was a beloved part-time cook at Smitty’s Place in McKeesport.

“I was with Dani at Tuesday night around 11 o’clock when she finished her shift. I was actually the last person that got to serve her a drink,” David Faynor, the manager of Smitty’s Place told WTAE-TV.

Danielle (Dani) Jackman, 58, died at the hospital on Wednesday following a five-car crash near the Fort Duquesne Bridge.

Officials said 52-year-old Michael Smith was also killed. According to police, Smith’s vehicle drove off the bridge and plunged onto the street below.

Faynor said Jackman worked as a cook at Smitty’s Place on Tuesdays and Sundays. He said the shocking loss probably won’t hit him until Sunday, when Jackman would have clocked in for her next shift.

According to Faynor, cooking was more than just work for Jackman – it was her passion.

Loved ones and community members plan to come together for a lantern release at Smitty’s Place in honor of Jackman. It will be held at 7 p.m. May 15.