CHATHAM COUNTY, NC — Quinten Gregory Kight, 40, and his girlfriend Annemarie Flanigan, 56, have been indicted on second-degree murder charges following a tragic boat crash on August 2, 2025, that killed 10-year-old Brooklyn Mae Carroll and severely injured Jennifer Stehle, who had her left leg amputated as a result of the collision.
Kight, the driver of the boat, and Flanigan, the owner of the vessel, were initially facing charges of death or serious injury by impaired boating, but the recent indictment escalated the case to murder charges.
The Incident
Kight was reportedly driving the boat while intoxicated, when the vessel crashed into three swimmers about 100 feet offshore on the Shearon Harris Reservoir. Brooklyn Carroll tragically lost her life, and Jennifer Stehle, the mother of one of Brooklyn’s friends, had her leg amputated due to the crash.
Authorities discovered evidence of impaired boating, with reports stating that there were 39 beer cans found on the boat, along with additional cans believed to have been present during the incident.
Allegations Against Flanigan
While Flanigan was not driving the boat and was not under the influence of alcohol, prosecutors allege that she was aware of Kight’s intoxicated state at the time of the crash.
Additionally, Flanigan allegedly wrote a misleading statement to authorities, claiming she had not witnessed the crash and only arrived at the scene after being called.
Statements from Victims’ Families
Brooklyn’s family released a heartfelt statement to the media following the indictment, expressing their gratitude for the support they have received from the community.
Stehle’s family also issued a statement, acknowledging the overwhelming support and the strength they have found through their loved ones during their recovery.
“We feel the strength of those prayers, and we seek God’s goodness in the way this community has come together to lift our family up,” Stehle’s family said.
Evidence and Investigation
District Attorney Jeff Nieman revealed additional details during Kight’s first appearance, noting that the boat was carrying at least 10 people, including two children. Investigators found that Kight was not looking forward while driving the boat, but instead looking backward at people on an inner tube.
Authorities also took a blood sample from Kight to determine his blood alcohol content, although those results have not been released.
Brooklyn’s Memory
Brooklyn’s family shared memories of the young girl, describing her as a “light in every room” with an infectious smile, a loving heart, and a spirit that touched everyone who knew her. A GoFundMe page established for her family also praised Brooklyn’s laughter, kindness, and energy, which brought joy to everyone around her.
Legal Proceedings
The next court date for Kight and Flanigan is scheduled for August 20, 2025. In addition to the charges related to the boat crash, Kight is also facing a hit-and-run case in Moore County, and court records show he pleaded guilty to DUI in New Mexico in 2010.
The case has garnered widespread attention as the community continues to seek justice for the tragic deaths and injuries caused by this reckless act.
