Deputy and Driver Charged in Fatal Leland Crash

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, N.C. (WECT) – Two individuals are facing charges following a deadly crash in Leland that claimed the life of Cora Cartrette on February 18. District Attorney Jon David announced the charges against Deputy Nathan Kye of the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office and Antoine Graham on March 17.

According to a press release, Deputy Kye was responding to assist another officer during a vehicle pursuit involving Graham at the time of the collision. The crash occurred at the intersection of U.S. 17 and Ploof Road, where Kye’s patrol car collided with Cartrette’s Hyundai.

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol reported that Kye was traveling at an estimated speed of 75 mph, having initially accelerated to 90 mph while responding with emergency lights and sirens activated. This reckless driving resulted in a fatal collision that left Cartrette, 45, dead at the scene.

“My office has been in contact with the Cartrette family, and our deepest condolences go out to her friends, loved ones, and the Leland community,” David stated. He emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, preventing further comments.

Kye has been charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle and failing to stop at a red light. A citation was issued on March 16, indicating that Kye unlawfully and unintentionally caused Cartrette’s death. The Brunswick County Grand Jury subsequently indicted Graham on charges related to the events leading up to the pursuit.

Graham faces a slew of serious charges, including felony speed to elude arrest, felony identity theft, driving while impaired, and multiple misdemeanor charges. He is currently being held on a $1 million bond.

The allegations against Graham stem from an apparent vehicle chase initiated by other deputies. Kye’s decision to chase the suspect culminated in the fatal crash, escalating discussions within the community about safe pursuit policies.

The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Deputy Kye is currently on medical leave and stated an internal investigation is underway in relation to the incident. A spokesperson for the office mentioned, “We will release a statement at a later time,” emphasizing that the investigation seeks to understand the circumstances surrounding the fatal encounter.