Dana Wilson was an 18-year-old student at UNC-Charlotte. She is from Wilmington, North Carolina. ^[0]

Wilson was known to be a hard-working individual, taking college courses and working multiple jobs while in high school.

She had a serious long-term relationship with her boyfriend, Ryan Menke. Wilson aspired to be a nurse. ^[9]She is remembered for her infectious smile, caring nature, and for taking pride in her work. ^[1]

During the early morning on February 6th around 1 am, Wilson, her boyfriend Ryan Menke, and their new puppy were driving in her Ford Focus when an Oldsmobile driven by Broderick Jones collided into their vehicle. The incident happened on U.S. Highway 74. Both Wilson and Menke died from the crash while Jones was sent to the hospital in serious condition. Jones was believed to be under the influence of alcohol. ^[2]The puppy survived the accident. ^[1]

A GoFundMe was created to help her family pay for her funeral expenses. ^[1]