High School Senior Lily Hahn Killed in DUI Crash in Eli Whitney on June 02, 2025

Eli Whitney, NC (June 02, 2025) – According to local news reports, an 18-year-old high school senior lost her life in a devastating head-on crash involving a suspected impaired driver in Alamance County. The fatal collision occurred shortly after midnight on Highway 87 near Greensboro Chapel Hill Road, just three miles from the victim’s home.

Authorities with the North Carolina Highway Patrol confirmed that 38-year-old Tracey Hernandez was driving a vehicle that crossed the center line and collided head-on with another car driven by 18-year-old Lily Hahn. Hahn was pronounced dead at the scene. At the time of the crash, she was just four days away from graduating from Southeast Alamance High School. Her future plans included attending Alamance Community College and Appalachian State University.

Hernandez had four young children in the vehicle, all between the ages of four and six. None of the children were restrained, and Hernandez herself was not wearing a seatbelt. The children’s injuries were reported as non-life-threatening in some early accounts, though later reports noted that three remained hospitalized with unknown conditions. Investigators confirmed that Hernandez admitted to consuming tequila before getting behind the wheel.

Records indicate Hernandez was driving with a revoked license. Her license had been suspended for 30 days starting May 2, with only one day remaining on that suspension at the time of the crash. Although her license was set for reinstatement the following day, authorities emphasized that suspension alone doesn’t physically prevent someone from driving. Officials cited delays in processing blood test results as the likely cause for the license suspension not immediately coinciding with her earlier impaired driving charge in Orange County.

Hernandez was formally arrested on June 6 and now faces sixteen charges, including second-degree murder, felony serious injury by vehicle, driving while impaired, reckless driving, and four counts of negligent child abuse. Additional charges include four counts for failing to properly restrain children in the vehicle. She was ordered held without bond and appeared in court via video in a wheelchair. Her attorney requested medical attention in a different detention facility.

Court proceedings revealed Hernandez’s prior impaired driving case involved crashing into a parked law enforcement vehicle with emergency lights activated in a construction zone. The pending case in Orange County remains open, and local prosecutors stated they do not dismiss DWI cases unless there is a legitimate evidentiary issue.

During the bond hearing, prosecutors characterized Hernandez as a continuing danger to public safety, noting that the crash could have killed not only Hahn but also the children in her vehicle. A prosecutor emphasized in court that “this is an especially egregious offense,” and highlighted that Hernandez’s lack of awareness of her danger to others is what makes her particularly concerning.

Hernandez is expected to remain in custody as the legal process moves forward.

Why Working with a Personal Injury Attorney in Eli Whitney, NC Matters

When you or someone you love is injured in a car accident, life can shift in an instant. Hospital bills, missed work, and ongoing recovery can leave people feeling overwhelmed. In these moments, reaching out to a personal injury attorney in Eli Whitney, NC can bring clarity and relief. A local attorney understands the specific laws in North Carolina that impact injury claims and knows how to advocate for fair outcomes.

What sets a good personal injury lawyer apart is their ability to take on the stress of the legal process so you can focus on getting better. From reviewing accident reports to negotiating with insurance companies, they handle the heavy lifting. If you’re unsure whether your case qualifies for compensation or how to move forward, a personal injury law firm in North Carolina can give you straightforward answers and a path forward.

Legal guidance isn’t just about filing paperwork. It’s about making sure your story is heard and your recovery is supported. Whether the injury is minor or life-changing, getting legal help early can prevent costly mistakes and protect your future. That’s especially true in places like Eli Whitney, where having a personal injury lawyer nearby means they’re accessible when you need them the most.

Common Ways a Personal Injury Lawyer in Eli Whitney Can Help

Accidents come with so many questions. Who pays for the medical bills? What happens if the other driver was uninsured? A personal injury lawyer in Eli Whitney, NC can help you find those answers. They will walk you through every step, including collecting evidence, talking to witnesses, and negotiating with insurance companies.

These attorneys know what kinds of damages you may be entitled to, whether it's lost wages, pain and suffering, or future medical expenses. They also know how to spot tactics insurers use to delay or reduce payouts. With a personal injury attorney near you, you have someone who knows how to push back and get real results.

A strong legal partner can also represent you in court if necessary, although many personal injury cases are resolved before trial. The point is, you don’t have to go it alone. A lawyer with experience in North Carolina personal injury law can take what feels like a mess and bring order to it.

Choosing the Right Personal Injury Law Firm in North Carolina

Finding the right fit in a personal injury law firm means looking for experience, honesty, and local knowledge. A firm that regularly handles cases in North Carolina will be up to date on the laws and court procedures that matter most to your situation. It’s also important to feel comfortable asking questions. Your lawyer should be someone who listens and explains things in a way that makes sense.

People often search online for a “personal injury lawyer near me” after an accident. But location is just one piece of the puzzle. You want a legal team that is responsive, professional, and focused on your needs. In Eli Whitney and surrounding areas, firms like Rosensteel Fleishman have become known for their thoughtful approach and strong representation.

Whether it’s a slip and fall, a traffic accident, or another type of injury case, having a good attorney by your side can make all the difference in how the next chapter unfolds.

What to Know About Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer in Eli Whitney, NC

If you've been in a car crash in Eli Whitney, getting help from a car accident lawyer in Eli Whitney, NC is one of the smartest decisions you can make. Car accidents can bring unexpected injuries, financial stress, and plenty of confusion about what to do next. A qualified attorney will walk you through the process, answer your questions, and take care of the legal side so you can focus on healing.

Car accident cases often require more than just filing a claim. Insurance companies may try to offer less than what you're owed or deny responsibility altogether. An experienced lawyer knows how to gather evidence, assess damages, and negotiate effectively on your behalf. In serious cases like the one involving Lily Hahn, where multiple laws were violated, having a legal professional ensures every detail is handled with care.

You don’t need to wait until problems arise to contact a lawyer. In fact, getting legal guidance early often prevents complications down the road. From the moment you pick up the phone, a car accident attorney in Eli Whitney can help you figure out your next move and protect your rights.

Why a Car Accident Attorney Near You Makes a Difference

Choosing a car accident attorney near you means you’re working with someone who understands the roads, the courts, and the local community. In smaller towns like Eli Whitney, that kind of local insight can be incredibly valuable. An attorney familiar with the area may be able to investigate more quickly, locate witnesses, and stay up to date on court procedures in Alamance County.

Local lawyers also tend to be more accessible. If you need to meet in person or drop off paperwork, you won’t have to drive hours to get help. And when your lawyer knows the local insurance adjusters and court staff, that familiarity can sometimes help move things along more smoothly.

It’s about more than convenience—it’s about having someone in your corner who’s invested in your case and your community. Whether the crash was minor or severe, working with a car accident attorney in Eli Whitney, NC gives you a better shot at getting the results you deserve.

How a Car Accident Law Firm in North Carolina Can Support You

A car accident law firm in North Carolina provides much more than just legal advice. They offer full-service support from start to finish. That means helping with everything from property damage claims to long-term injury compensation. They also make sure that time limits, known as statutes of limitations, aren’t missed.

The right firm can evaluate the details of your accident and explain your options in simple terms. They can guide you through insurance paperwork, medical record collection, and even courtroom appearances if needed. Many victims don’t realize just how many details go into a strong car accident claim until they speak with a lawyer.

In serious cases, such as those involving DUIs, unlicensed drivers, or child endangerment, a firm with experience handling complex car accident cases becomes even more important. Their legal knowledge and experience in North Carolina laws help build a strong foundation for your case. That way, you can feel confident knowing someone is working hard to get justice for you and your family.

Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident Law Firm in Eli Whitney for DUI Crash Victims

Car accidents caused by impaired driving are some of the most heartbreaking cases families will ever face. The sudden loss or injury of a loved one, especially when caused by reckless behavior, can upend lives in an instant. When something like the recent DUI crash in Eli Whitney happens, families need more than condolences. They need reliable legal support. That’s where Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers come in.

The team at Rosensteel Fleishman knows how overwhelming things can feel after a major car accident, especially one involving a young victim and complex charges. Whether it's understanding insurance paperwork, dealing with hospital bills, or seeking answers about what comes next, having a dependable law firm on your side can make a big difference. The attorneys at Rosensteel Fleishman focus on personal injury and car accident cases, offering practical legal help during emotionally heavy times.

One of the best parts? Getting started doesn’t cost anything. The firm offers free consultations so families can learn what options are available without the pressure of upfront fees. Just call 1-704-714-1450 to talk with someone who listens and can walk you through the legal side of things at your pace.

Why Legal Support Is Important After a Personal Injury Accident

When someone is seriously injured or killed in a car crash, especially one involving a DUI, the emotional toll is enormous. But there's also a legal side to these tragedies that families shouldn't face alone. The law gives victims and their loved ones the right to seek compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering. Navigating this process can be complex, but that's where an experienced personal injury attorney in Eli Whitney, NC, can help.

Working with a personal injury lawyer near you means getting someone who understands the laws in North Carolina and how they apply to your specific case. This becomes especially important when the at-fault driver has a history of impaired driving or other traffic violations, like the driver involved in the Eli Whitney crash. Legal professionals can help gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and handle communication with insurance companies. Their job is to make sure your voice is heard and your rights are protected every step of the way.

Benefits of Hiring a North Carolina Injury Law Firm to Handle Your Eli Whitney Car Accident Case

Families dealing with the aftermath of a crash often feel overwhelmed. A personal injury law firm in North Carolina brings the tools and knowledge needed to manage the legal process so families can focus on healing. From handling investigations to negotiating settlements, an attorney provides clear and strategic support. Rosensteel Fleishman works closely with their clients to ensure every detail is taken into account.

A skilled legal team can also:

• Review and gather all medical records and accident reports
• Coordinate with accident reconstruction experts
• Represent you in court if necessary
• Fight for full compensation for your injuries or loss
• Guide you through every step of the claim process

What Does a Eli Whitney Accident Lawyer Do? How Can They Help?

A car accident attorney in Eli Whitney is more than just a legal advisor. They’re an advocate, someone who fights on behalf of victims to ensure justice is served. In this case, that could mean holding an impaired driver accountable, especially one who was driving without a valid license and putting unrestrained children in danger. The right attorney helps organize the facts, build a strong case, and demand fair compensation.

Car accident lawyers near you can also explain your rights, advise on the strengths of your claim, and make sure no deadlines are missed. Their role is to lift the burden off your shoulders so you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Be Helpful After a Car Accident in Eli Whitney, NC

A personal injury attorney in Eli Whitney, NC, can bring clarity during a very difficult time. They help answer questions families may not even know to ask. What are your options if the driver was uninsured or underinsured? What if the crash involved children, as it did in the recent DUI case? How do medical expenses get paid while a claim is pending?

The attorneys at Rosensteel Fleishman know how to walk through each of these questions with patience and clear answers. Whether it's helping survivors recover lost wages or guiding grieving families through wrongful death claims, their support can be critical.

How Rosensteel Fleishman Can Support Families Affected by the Eli Whitney Crash

The tragedy that unfolded on Highway 87 in Eli Whitney has left an entire community grieving. For the family of Lily Hahn, the loss is unimaginable. A young life taken just days before graduation, a dream cut short, and a family now burdened with not only grief but legal and financial uncertainty. In situations like this, Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers can be a valuable resource for families who don’t know where to turn.

They understand that each crash is more than just a case. It’s a story, a family, and a future changed forever. That’s why their approach is personal, compassionate, and steady. They work one-on-one with families to uncover the full scope of what happened, gather every piece of relevant evidence, and pursue justice in a way that feels right for the people most affected. From addressing medical costs and funeral expenses to managing conversations with insurance companies, they provide the kind of help that takes pressure off grieving families.

When the driver responsible has a complicated history—such as multiple driving offenses, alcohol involvement, and unrestrained children in the vehicle—the case can become legally complex. That’s where the team at Rosensteel Fleishman really steps up. They have the experience to handle even the most challenging legal issues and always keep the client’s well-being at the center of their work.

Choosing Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Accident & Injury Case in North Carolina

Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers are based in Charlotte, NC, but they represent clients across the entire state, including communities like Eli Whitney. They’ve become a trusted name for those who need legal help after serious car accidents. With every case, their focus is on making things right for the victims and holding negligent drivers accountable.

As attorney Corey Rosensteel puts it, “Every case is personal to us. We treat our clients like we’d want our own family treated after something traumatic.” That level of commitment shows in the attention they give to every detail, their clear communication, and their willingness to stand up to powerful insurance companies.

Choosing a law firm in North Carolina that knows how to work both compassionately and efficiently is key. Rosensteel Fleishman has helped countless families through some of their hardest days, and they’re ready to do the same for you.

Start Your Free Consultation with a Personal Injury Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love has been affected by a car accident in Eli Whitney or anywhere in North Carolina, it’s worth reaching out for legal advice. The call is free, the consultation is free, and the peace of mind you get from speaking with a personal injury attorney near you could be life-changing. The team at Rosensteel Fleishman is standing by at 1-704-714-1450, ready to listen and help you take the next step. Whether it's a car accident lawyer in Eli Whitney or legal support anywhere in the state, their doors are open and the help is real.