Officials with the N.C. Highway Patrol are still awaiting a decision from the Sampson District Attorney’s Office that could bring charges relating to an accident that killed a 13-year-old Midway Middle School student just over two weeks ago.

After an investigation into the Sept. 14 tragic utility terrain vehicle (UTV) accident, officials with the North Carolina Highway Patrol turned the case over to the D.A.’s office to determine what, if any, charges would be pressed in the case.

“So far we haven’t heard anything yet,” said First Sergeant Ricky Hooks Thursday morning. “We have to wait to hear what that decision will be.”

According to Highway Patrol reports, Mackinley “Mack” Waters was killed after he was ejected from a Polaris utility vehicle while riding with two friends on a path on the evening of Sept. 14. None of the boys were wearing seatbelts or helmets at the time of the accident, officials said. The vehicle overturned on a field path on private property located just .19 mile north of Hollerin’ Road.

Although it is unlikely charges will be pressed against the two surviving children, law enforcement officials said it is possible for the parents of the driver to be cited or charged. North Carolina law states that a vehicle, like the one involved in the accident, cannot be operated by a child under age 16 without being supervised by a person at least age 18.

In this case, the driver of the vehicle was 12.

When contacted Thursday, Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Barnes would only say that a trooper had asked her to take a look at the case and possible charges.

“I am reviewing it,” she said.

Barnes did not give a timeline on when a decision will be made.

To reach Doug Clark call 910-592-8137 ext. 123 or email to sisports@heartlandpublications.com.