Man Charged In Linden Crash That Killed 7-Year-Old

James David Carter II has been charged in connection to a crash on the night of January 17 on Palestine Road in Linden in which a 7-year-old boy suffered fatal personal injuries.

At approximately 9 p.m., 7-year-old Linden resident Nathaniel Brett Thames died when Carter’s Chevrolet SUV ran off the road, went sideways, and overturned several times, according to Trooper Greg Steffens of the North Carolina Highway Patrol. Thames was pronounced dead at the scene.

Carter, who resides at the same address as Thames, was charged with DWI, careless and reckless driving, and child restraint violation. Steffens said further charges related to Thames’ death are pending.

Steffens said that at the time of the crash, Carter was driving at a speed in excess of 85 mph in a 45 mph zone.

Carter received transport to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center for chest pains. Steffens says he has since been released.