Thursday, December 19, 2024

Former Dallas City Councilwoman Carolyn Davis killed in auto accident; daughter in critical condition

Former Dallas City Councilwoman Carolyn Davis was killed by a suspected drunk driver on July 15.

UPDATE: Ms. Nunn passed away from her injuries on Wednesday, July 17. The suspect now will face multiple manslaughter charges. 

By: Ruth Ferguson, NDG Editor

The Dallas Police Department on Tuesday confirmed the death of 57-year-old Carolyn Davis, a former member of the Dallas City Council, died on Monday night as a result of traffic accident shortly after 7:30 p.m. Ms. Davis’ 26-year-old daughter, Melissa Davis Nunn, a front-seat passenger, was in critical condition at Baylor before succumbing to her injuries on Wednesday. 

The two women were going westbound on E. Ledbetter Drive in the center lane when a 35-year-old male driving a 2007 Blue Mazda Tribute eastbound veered into the westbound lanes of the 2400 block E. Ledbetter Drive.

The driver of the Mazda, later identified as 36-year-old Jonathan Moore, was also taken to the hospital but his injuries are not considered life-threatening, and he has been placed under arrest.

He is expected to be charged with two Intoxication Manslaughter and Intoxication Assault charges.

Moore has been charged with drunk driving several times and on July 10 completed probation for a 2013 arrest. He received five years on probation instead of 10 years in prison.

 

Reflections from community leaders

Elected officials shared their reactions via social media Tuesday morning.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Davis family and all of District 7, as we mourn the loss of a D7 champion, Honorable Carolyn Davis,” Dallas City Councilman Adam Bazaldua shared via Facebook on Tuesday morning.

Bazaldua was recently elected to fill the seat previously held by Ms. Davis.

Dallas City Councilman Casey Thomas shared via Facebook, “Rest in power, former Council member Carolyn Davis. Thank you for your service.”

“I am saddened by the recent passing of Councilwoman Davis,” Ed Gray, NDG’s Senior Columnist shared. “Her commitment to the people of South Dallas was unquestionable.”

Gray also reflected on how much her daughter meant to Ms. Davis.

“Her other love was her daughter. I recall the times that we spoke on the phone, as we talked about our daughters and their lives. As Carolyn leaves the bonds of earth, I know she smiles with the knowledge that her last moments were with her daughter. Rest In Peace, Carolyn,” Gray added.

Claudia Flower, a long-time resident of the District 7, offered words of appreciation for the work of Ms. Davis. Speaking on behalf of the Joppa Community in the district, Ms. Flower said the residents received the news with heavy hearts.

“She was an intricate part of progress here in Joppa and always taking the time and holding town hall meetings here in our community for our residents. Explaining budgets and how the city government works and always extending an open invitation to come to City Hall and an open-door policy to her, OUR representative,” Flower shared.

Reflecting on her final contribution which was the addition of sign toppers, Flower shared Ms. Davis considered it important to recognize the Hopper Community because they are a distinguished community and worthy of the honor.

“A true warrior and champion for the community. Our friend and sister, your dash is complete and our community is thankful to have been a part of your journey as a leader,” Flower shared in closing.

Ms. Davis spent decades championing on behalf of the residents of District 7 even before she joined the city council in 2007. Ms. Davis was one of the marchers years ago with now Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price.

Her focus during her first election campaign was to get rid of drugs and crime in South Dallas while bringing more economic development to the area. She left the council in 2015 due to term limits. However, she continued to be a regular fixture speaking before the council on issues concerning her district.

 

 

 

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