New Bern, NC : 9-year-old girl killed, mother charged with driving while impaired after a wreck near New Bern on Sunday morning, April 12, 2015

Additional charges are anticipated against a mom currently charged with DWI in the wreck that killed her 9-year-old daughter.

District Attorney Scott Thomas said, “ I have met with NCSHP Troopers who are investigating the collision. At this point, Ms. Ellis has been charged with driving while impaired and reckless driving. Based upon the information I have, I anticipate additional felony charges will be filed at the conclusion of the investigation. These charges will be based upon the death of her daughter and the injuries sustained by the driver and passenger of the other vehicle."

The wreck happened in New Bern around 11:30 Sunday morning at the intersection of Highway 70 and Old Cherry Point Highway.

Troopers say Breeana Jefferson, 9, of Havelock was killed when her mother, Billie Joe Ellis, 41, ran off Highway 70 and then crossed the center median into oncoming traffic.

"Ellis was transported to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville where blood was drawn for submission to the State Crime Lab for analysis. We believe the impairment in this case is due to prescription medication,” said Thomas.

Ellis' Honda Civic was struck by a GMC Acadia driven by Barabara Johnson of Morehead City. Troopers say Johnson's 7-year-old son was also in the SUV.

Troopers say the impact of the crash ejected Ellis from her vehicle onto the roadway while her Honda continued across traffic and into a ditch. Ellis has been charged with DWI and reckless driving and was flown to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville. Her 9-year-old daughter, who was unrestrained in the vehicle, died at the scene.

Troopers say Johnson and her 7-year-old son were both transported to Carolina East Medical Center in New Bern with non-life-threatening injuries.

Troopers say, at last check, Ellis was listed in critical condition.

Monday, Craven County Schools issued this statement in regards to the third grader they lost:

"Our school family is saddened by the news of Breeana Jefferson, she was a third grade student in Craven County Schools. Additional counselors have been made available for students and staff during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with all involved."

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9-year-old girl killed in wreck near New Bern; mother charged with driving while impaired