Elizabeth Poland, Lilly Davis die in 2-vehicle crash on Sunset Avenue

Chrysler 200 sedan collided with a Ford Transit van in west Rocky Mount

March 19, 2026 | Rocky Mount, NC

A tragic two-vehicle crash in west Rocky Mount claimed the lives of 24-year-old Carmen Elizabeth Poland and her 6-year-old sister, Lilly Davis, on Thursday afternoon.

Carmen Elizabeth Poland, 24, and Lilly Davis, 6, died after a two-vehicle crash on Sunset Avenue in Rocky Mount.

What Happened in the Crash?

According to the Rocky Mount Police Department, Poland was driving a Chrysler 200 sedan on Sunset Avenue near Church View Drive when it collided with a Ford Transit van around 2 p.m.

• Victims: Carmen Elizabeth Poland, 24, and Lilly Davis, 6, were pronounced dead at the scene.
• Injuries: A female passenger in the Chrysler suffered serious injuries and was taken to ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville.
• Other Involved: The Ford Transit driver was uninjured, two male passengers sustained minor injuries and received treatment at UNC Nash Health Care.
• Location: Sunset Avenue near Church View Drive, Nash County.
• Time: Approximately 2 p.m. on March 19.

The incident has left the community mourning, with Poland remembered for her vibrant spirit and kindness, and Davis for her joyful innocence that brightened lives around her.

A GoFundMe page has been established to cover funeral costs for Carmen and Lilly, as well as support for their mother's recovery.

Anyone with details about the crash should contact Rocky Mount police at 252-972-1411 or submit an anonymous tip via Tip411.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of death in the United States. Factors such as distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield often contribute to such tragedies.

The Rocky Mount Police Department's Traffic Enforcement and Crash Reconstruction Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding this fatal collision.

These figures underscore the urgent need for road safety improvements and thorough investigations following incidents like this one.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this, preserving evidence promptly is crucial for understanding liability and supporting affected families.

"In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party," said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. "Time is of the essence in cases such as this, and the victim's family must ensure that evidence is reviewed efficiently."

"An accident reconstruction team is sometimes needed to help piece together what happened. All of these resources are necessary for helping clients receive monetary compensation for damages or a loss following a collision," added Bond, a national legal analyst for Newsline.

• Key Takeaways:

  • Independent investigations by attorneys can uncover critical details overlooked in initial investigations.
  • Surveillance footage and digital records often provide vital evidence.
  • Prompt action helps secure compensation for medical costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.

Pending the investigation, the family of Carmen Elizabeth Poland may pursue a wrongful death claim to seek damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

"We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one," said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. "If you have lost a loved one due to someone else's negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney and get the guidance needed to obtain the justice you deserve."

"Grieving families of victims are sometimes overwhelmed by the legal processes that are in place to protect their rights. An attorney can be a valuable and compassionate resource to help guide a family during this difficult time and ensure that those left behind receive the restitution they are entitled to."

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