Cowan, Clack Win $5.1M Compensatory Damage Verdict in Johnston County

Case Type: Wrongful Death
Attorneys for Plaintiff: Coleman Cowan and Donald Clack of the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin
Case Name:James Fowler as the Administrator for the Estate of Joan Drake v Malakhi Holt
Court: Johnston County Superior
Verdict: $5.1 million
Judge: Judge Paul Holcombe
Date of Incident: June 26, 2023
Date of Resolution: April 23, 2025

A Johnston County jury awarded $5.1 million in compensatory damages in a wrongful death case involving Joan Drake. On June 26, 2023, Drake lost her life on U.S. 70 Business in Clayton while making a left turn into a WalMart parking lot. The defendant, traveling eastbound, collided with Drake’s vehicle at a speed of 98 miles per hour. Evidence suggested that the defendant was either engaged in road rage or racing with another vehicle that was never identified. Drake died at the scene from multiple blunt force traumas, including an internal decapitation.

The plaintiff did not present evidence of medical bills, funeral expenses, or lost income. Instead, the case focused solely on the monetary value of Drake’s comfort, care, and guidance to her two adult sons. The jury was tasked with one issue: What amount is the Estate of Joan Drake entitled to recover for wrongful death? After 40 minutes of deliberation, the jury returned a verdict of $5.1 million in compensatory damages. Including interest and costs, the total judgment exceeded $5.6 million.