Auburn Cupcake Shop Owner Killed in Crash Involving School Bus

A beloved Auburn business owner was tragically killed in a collision with a school bus on Tuesday morning, November 18, according to Alabama authorities. The crash occurred just after 8 a.m. along the 1000 block of East University Drive at Alfa Court.

The victim was identified as Jennifer Merwin Cooper, 42, of Auburn, by Lee County Coroner Daniel Sexton. Police confirmed that Cooper, the driver of the car, was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported.

The Auburn Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Unit responded and has launched an investigation. Officials have not yet released details about what caused the crash or who may have been at fault.

Cooper was widely known and admired in the community. According to her LinkedIn profile, she owned GiGi’s Cupcakes in Opelika, Alabama, and Columbus, Georgia. She was also a mother of two and a former science teacher. A past profile in the Opelika Observer highlighted her 15 years of serving cupcakes to the community.

Jennifer and her husband were active in local charitable efforts, including donating birthday cakes to foster children since 2018 and partnering with United Way and area schools on fundraising initiatives.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the crash to contact Auburn police at 334-501-3140, the tip line at 334-246-1391, or via email at [email protected]