Work Leave Twist: Mackenzie Shirilla’s father did not return to work after administrative leave, but the special reason reportedly was not his daughter
Diocese confirms leave update, Steve Shirilla not returning following Netflix release
STRONGSVILLE, Ohio (WOIO) – Mackenzie Shirilla’s father is not returning to work after he was on administrative leave following the new Netflix documentary, “The Crash.”
Mackenzie Shirilla crashed her vehicle on July 31, 2022 in Strongsville.
She was traveling 100 mph and slammed into a brick wall, killing her boyfriend Dominic Russo and their friend Davion Flanagan.
In 2023, a Cuyahoga County judge found Mackenzie Shirilla guilty of multiple charges, including murder and aggravated vehicular homicide. Shirilla was sentenced to life in prison with eligibility for parole after 15 years served.
Her father, Steve Shirilla, was placed on administrative leave from his position at Mary Queen of Peace School in Cleveland since the documentary’s release regarding comments he made.
According to the school’s website, he was the art and digital media teacher.
19 News received the following confirmation from the diocese:
Catholic school personnel decisions are the purview of each school in the Diocese of Cleveland. Due to privacy considerations, neither the schools nor the Diocese ordinarily discuss personnel issues publicly. However, we can confirm that Mr. Steve Shirilla will not be returning to Mary Queen of Peace School.
An email was sent to parents when the initial announcement of his administrative leave was made.
Dear Mary Queen of Peace School Parents, Families, and Guardians,
We are investigating allegations made on social media that one of our teachers has demonstrated poor judgement. Upon learning of the allegation the school acted immediately and placed the teacher on administrative leave. The investigation is ongoing. We want every parent and family to know that the safety, wellbeing, and trust of our students remain among our highest priorities. We take all student concerns seriously and are committed to responding promptly and responsibly whenever concerns are brought forward.
While we are limited in what we can share during an active personnel investigation, please know that we are reviewing the matter and will provide additional communication as appropriate.
We appreciate your continued support of the Mary Queen of Peace School community.
