The North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division (ALE) announced on March 12 that it has arrested two individuals following an investigation into a fatal motor vehicle crash involving minors. The arrests come after ALE concluded its inquiry into the source of alcohol and controlled substances believed to have contributed to the incident.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address the dangers posed when underage individuals gain access to alcohol or drugs, especially when such incidents result in serious injury or death. ALE routinely investigates these cases to identify and hold accountable those who provide substances to minors.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, a single-vehicle collision occurred on Nov. 17, 2025, involving a 2012 Ford Mustang traveling at high speed that lost control and struck a tree. Two occupants, including one juvenile, died at the scene while two other juveniles were hospitalized and later released. ALE special agents conducted interviews, executed search warrants, and received assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Charlotte Field Office during their investigation.
Based on their findings, ALE agents arrested Tammy Jones, 48, and Amber Dennis, 41, both of Pikeville. Both face multiple felony charges including selling and delivering marijuana, possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana, maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances, conspiracy, contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile, and aiding or abetting a person under 21 in obtaining alcoholic beverages. Dennis also faces an additional charge for giving a malt beverage to an underage person. A 17-year-old occupant was charged by the State Highway Patrol with two counts of felony second-degree murder among other charges.
“Our source investigations are designed to determine where underage individuals obtained alcohol or drugs when a serious incident occurs,” ALE Director Bryan House said. “Adults who illegally provide these substances to minors will be identified and held accountable for the dangerous and often tragic consequences that can follow.”
ALE Special Agents serve as peace officers with statewide jurisdiction throughout North Carolina. Their primary mission is enhancing community safety by addressing criminal activity at both licensed and illegal alcohol establishments. ALE is also responsible for enforcing state laws related to alcoholic beverages control as well as gambling, lottery, tobacco regulations, and nuisance abatement statutes.
