Michael Jordan-owned 23XI's racing staffer, Evanna Howell has been suspended after her alleged irresponsibility left a 77-year-old man injured.
Just days after processing Kyle Busch's sudden demise, the NASCAR world has got another shock after a senior account manager, Evanna Howell was indefinitely suspected. The unexpected incident took place during the Coca-Cola 600 race weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway. According to reports, Evanna is facing a serious felony assault charge. It comes after he allegedly hit a 77-year-old man with a golf car during a busy weekend.
According to Cabarrus County court filings, Evanna Howell was taken into custody on May 23, 2026. Her arrest came after she was reportedly involved in a golf car accident at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Police reports claim that the 35-year-old intentionally struck a 77-year-old man with the vehicle. The incident took place at 1:45 p.m. during the race weekend activities.
In turn, authorities later found her and charged her for felony assault with a deadly weapon causing serious injury. At the same time, the officials stated that the victim suffered from serious injuries including a major laceration from the accident. However, details about what caused the conflict is still unknown. Investigators did not clarify if there was an argument or disagreement before the incident. Still, Evanna was reportedly taken into custody at the speedway and later booked into Cabarrus County jail.
Although authorities eventually released Evanna after posting a secured bail of USD 125,000, the legal case continues. In fact, court reports reveal that her next scheduled appearance is set for June 16, 2026. Before the controversy, Evanna had made a respectable career within NASCAR. At the same time, her Linkedin Profile mentioned that she has been working with 23XI Racing since 2021. In fact, she was responsible for sponsorship and partner relationships. Evanna especially became popular during the 2024 NASCAR Drive for Diversity Awards after winning a NASCAR Partner Award.
NASCAR has officially spoken about the matter in their weekly penalty report that was released after the Coca-Cola 600 weekend. The organization confirmed that Evanna had been indefinitely suspended until there is an outcome of the legal process. They also mentioned that the alleged act was a violation of Section 4.4A of the NASCAR rulebook that relates to behavioral conduct of the NASCAR members. Now, the 35-year-old's suspension means she is barred from NASCAR-related activities as the case continues to move in court proceedings.
Meanwhile, until now Evanna's employer team, 23XI Racing has not made any public comments on her arrest or her employment status with the company. But, latest reports suggest that the team's internal legal and HR Departments are likely reviewing the situation closely. Since she worked directly with sponsorship and business partners, the incident can also create an impact on the team's public image.
Despite her bail Evanna Howell's legal proceedings will continue in court. She can face both criminal and professional consequences if found guilty. For those unaware, North Carolina law states that assault with a deadly weapon, which causes serious injury is considered a felony offense. It can carry a major prison time depending on the court's final verdict. On the other hand, legal experts believe that Evanna's team will mostly examine police evidence, witness statements and witness’ medical reports before deciding the future plan of action. In fact, her future in NASCAR is also uncertain.
What do you think about Evanna Howell's arrest?
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