Man Crashes Boat While Intoxicated, Resulting in the Tragic Death of a 10-Year-Old Girl and Severe Injury to a Woman
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A man has been charged with driving under the influence following a devastating incident where he crashed his boat into a group of swimmers, leading to the death of a 10-year-old girl and causing serious injuries to a woman. The accused, Quinten Knight, aged 40, allegedly drove his boat into a group of swimmers at Harris Lake in Chatham County, North Carolina. The collision tragically claimed the life of Brooklyn Mae Carroll, 10, and left Jennifer Stehle severely injured on Saturday, August 2.
According to reports from WRAL News and CBS 17, Carroll succumbed to her injuries, while Jennifer was airlifted to the hospital in critical condition. Her leg had to be amputated above the knee, as confirmed by CBS 17 and ABC11. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission disclosed that Jennifer also sustained injuries to her right leg, but surgeons were able to save it despite the severity. Reports indicate that the two victims were not related to each other.
Quinten Knight was found to be “under the influence of an impairing substance,” as stated in an arrest warrant and by a spokesperson from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, as reported by CBS17 and WRAL News. The warrant went on to mention that he unintentionally caused the child’s death. Sergeant Claude Smith of the N.C. Wildlife Commission revealed that Knight drove a Tiger Wake Boat belonging to his girlfriend into three swimmers before being apprehended at the Cross Point Access Area.
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has confirmed that Knight is facing charges of Operating While Impaired and Death by Impaired Boating in connection to the tragic incident. Additional reports from WRAL News suggest that Knight had a pending hit-and-run charge from two years prior to this latest incident. Sheriff Mike Roberson expressed his sentiments, calling the accident preventable and highlighting the devastating consequences of operating a boat under the influence of alcohol.
Kristie Stehle, Jennifer’s sister-in-law, released a statement urging everyone to keep the affected families in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate through this difficult time and attempt to heal from the tragedy. She underscored the importance of making responsible decisions, as every choice made can have profound impacts on the lives of others. A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with Jennifer Stehle’s medical expenses, with donations pouring in to support her recovery journey.
The community at Harris Lake has been deeply affected by the incident, with many expressing shock and disbelief at the consequences of reckless actions. Boaters emphasised the need for vigilance and responsibility while on the water, especially when alcohol is involved, to prevent such tragedies from reoccurring. Investigations are ongoing, and Knight is scheduled to appear in court on September 22, according to reports from WRAL News. Efforts to gather comments from the Moncure Fire Department are currently underway.
This heart-wrenching event serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of responsible behaviour and the far-reaching consequences of reckless actions. As the affected families grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy, the community stands in solidarity, offering support and hope for healing and recovery in the face of unimaginable loss and pain.