UPDATED, Friday 3 p.m.: A Kitty Hawk man is facing second-degree murder and at least five other counts after the death of an 11-year-old Currituck County girl who was struck by a vehicle on U.S. 158 Aug. 30 in front of Currituck High School in Barco.
Julie Randel and her brother had already crossed Caratoke Highway near the northern entrance to the high school/middle school complex at approximately 3:27 p.m., but Julie went back to retrieve something she dropped on the road, according to the North Carolina Highway Patrol. As she did, she was struck by a vehicle traveling in the eastbound, outside lane.
Julie had been hospitalized since and her family made the decision this week to take her off life support and allow her to become an organ donor. She passed away Wednesday at Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters on Wednesday.
According to the Highway Patrol, the driver underwent a field sobriety test at the scene, and a blood sample was taken at the scene to be sent to the State Crime Lab.
Daniel Deweese, 32, of Kitty Hawk, was taken into custody at the scene and initially charged on Aug. 30 with felony serious injury by vehicle, along with driving while impaired, possession of an open container in passenger area of motor vehicle, possession of marijuana up to one-half-ounce, and speeding in a school zone, all misdemeanors.
The speed limit in front of the schools is 35 mph between 2:30 and 3:30 p.m., and caution signals are located at each end of the school zone. No crosswalks or sidewalks are located on U.S. 158.
The Highway Patrol determined Deweese was traveling 56 mph when he applied his brakes prior to colliding with Julie.
Due to the nature of the case, other charges were pending from the District Attorney’s Office. Following Julie’s death, Deweese was charged Friday with second-degree murder and felony death by motor vehicle.
Total bond was set at $840,000. Deweese is scheduled for a first appearance hearing on September 15 in Currituck County Superior Court.
A memorial service for Julie will be held Sunday, September 19, 2021 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Currituck Middle School.
The community has rallied to help the Randel family with several fundraisers. See below: