Braxton Family Press Conference

PONTOTOC, Miss. (WCBI) – The family of Amiya Braxton say they have found eyewitnesses to the October 4th incident, who had not previously come forward.

“The names and contact information of those eyewitnesses have been turned over to all relevant law enforcement authorities,” said Braxton Family Spokesman Rev. James Hull.

Amiya was getting off a stopped school bus in front of her residence when a car driven by Karen Carpenter passed the bus, on the right shoulder, striking Amiya.  Earlier this year a Grand Jury declined to indict Carpenter.  But with the new eyewitnesses, family members are hoping the case will be re  presented by the District Attorney.

“Our whole lives have been turned upside down because of this, I had to quit my career my husband had to start over in his career, this has been very hard, she was killed in front of her ten year old brother,” said Amiya’s Mother, Andrea Braxton.

Amiya’s family has also started a petition drive, throughout the entire first district, asking the DA to re present the case.

“It will be encouraging more if  I hear the DA say, ok, we are going to do this, we are going to take her back and follow the law all the way on this one,” said Amiya’s Grandmother, Kathryn Chandler.

The next Grand Jury will meet in January.

District Attorney John Weddle said he can’t comment on the case until his office talks with the new eyewitnesses, and makes a decision on whether to proceed.