Family launches campaign for “Arabella’s Law” after fatal Columbus County crash

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — The family of an 11-year-old girl and her mother who were killed in a crash earlier this month is calling for changes to North Carolina law, saying current statutes do not adequately hold drivers accountable in fatal crashes involving alleged reckless driving.

Arabella “Bella” Powell, 11, and her mother, Amanda Green, were killed July 10 in a crash at the intersection of Rough and Ready Road and Hinsons Crossroads Road in Columbus County.

According to the family’s campaign, the crash occurred after another driver allegedly failed to stop at a dual-erected stop sign before colliding with their vehicle. The driver is currently facing misdemeanor death by motor vehicle charges.

The family says the charges highlight what they believe is a gap in North Carolina law. Under N.C. General Statute § 20-141.4, misdemeanor death by motor vehicle may apply in certain fatal traffic crashes that do not involve impairment by drugs or alcohol.

In response, family members and supporters have launched a campaign advocating for “Arabella’s Law,” which would seek to strengthen penalties in cases involving fatal crashes caused by what they describe as gross negligence, extreme recklessness or blatant traffic violations.

The campaign is focused on two primary goals: urging Columbus County District Attorney Jon David to pursue the maximum accountability allowed under current law and encouraging state lawmakers to amend the statute so certain fatal crashes caused by reckless driving would be prosecuted as felonies rather than misdemeanors.

“This is not about penalizing a simple, minor mistake,” the family said in a statement. “This is about accountability for severe, compounding infractions where a driver shows a total disregard for traffic laws and human life, resulting in unimaginable tragedy.”

The family also said they hope the proposed legislation will help prevent other families from experiencing similar losses.

“No family should have to fight an unjust system while grieving the loss of their whole world,” the statement continued. “Everyone’s life should be worth the same in the eyes of the law. Currently, NC only gives justice if you are killed by a drunk driver.”

Supporters have launched an online petition calling for the proposed legislative changes and are asking community members to share the campaign and advocate for reform.