Memorial fund established for accident victim
By: Melanie Davis
melanie@mountaintimes.com

A memorial fund has been established to assist the family of Boone woman killed in a car accident April 18 on U.S. 321.

Tabitha Marie Hilton, 21, was a passenger in a 2002 Volkswagen car driven by Jeffrey Lee Warren, 31, of Sugar Grove. Warren was traveling northbound toward Boone at a high rate of speed, according to the N.C. Highway patrol. He lost control of the vehicle and crossed the centerline. The rear side of the car collided with a 2000 Nissan passenger vehicle. Hilton was riding in the rear seat of the Volkswagen and was killed in the collision.

Her brother-in-law, Gregory Hemrick, has established a memorial fund to assist the family with Hilton's final expenses. Contributions can be made at any High Country or Yadkin Valley Bank locations. The account is listed as Gregory Hemrick, care of Tabitha Hilton Memorial Fund. Donations may be mailed to High County Bank, 149 Jefferson Road, Boone, N.C. 28607.

Shannon L. Beach, 32, of Boone was riding in the front passenger seat of the Volkswagen. Both she and Warren were airlifted via Wings Air Rescue to Johnson City Area Medical Center. As of Friday afternoon, Beach remains in serious condition. Warren is now listed in fair condition. The Nissan was driven by Kenneth Bryan Taylor, 27, of Boone. Paul Fewell Motten, 26, of Durham was a passenger in the front seat.

Both were wearing their seatbelts and sustained only minor injuries. They were treated at the scene by Watauga Medics and released. Sgt. V.A. Misenheimer of the N.C. Highway Patrol said charges are possible. The high rate of speed and the possibility of alcohol involvement could lead to charges against Warren. The case will be turned over to the Watauga County District Attorney’s office prior to charges being filed, which is standard procedure for all motor-collision deaths investigated by the NCHP.