Burlington Woman Charged After Moped Crash Kills Local Man
BURLINGTON, N.C. — A Burlington woman has been charged after police say her vehicle struck a man on a moped earlier this month, leaving him critically injured. The victim, identified as Joshua Craven, 45, has since died from his injuries.
The Crash
According to the Burlington Police Department (BPD), the collision occurred on September 13 as Craven traveled east on Graham Street near Delaware Avenue.
Surveillance footage showed Craven signaling with his left arm to indicate an upcoming left turn. Investigators said drivers behind him appeared to interpret the gesture as a sign to pass.
Driver’s Actions
Police said Nirabonh Pathoumthong, 53, of Burlington, was driving a 2015 Honda Civic and believed Craven’s signal meant she should pass him. She reportedly drove left-of-center, flanking Craven on his right, which caused him to turn his moped directly into her car.
Craven suffered critical injuries and remained hospitalized until his death on September 25.
Charges Filed
Following notification of Craven’s death, investigators sought charges against Pathoumthong. On Friday, she was served with a criminal summons for misdemeanor death by vehicle.
Officials noted that speed and impairment were not considered factors in the crash. Pathoumthong remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators.
Community Impact
The tragic accident highlights ongoing concerns about moped and motorcycle safety on North Carolina roads, where visibility and misinterpretation of signals often play a role in collisions.
Do you think North Carolina should increase awareness campaigns on safely sharing the road with mopeds and motorcycles? Share your thoughts in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
