Minnie Florence Mills, age 19, a domestic laborer, was hit by a car in 1931, apparently in Wentworth County, North Carolina. She died from her injuries in Danville, Pitts County, Virginia. Minnie and her brother Willie Mills were walking to Bluestone Church to attend a funeral when she was struck by a hit-and-run driver. Willie tried for one to two hours to get help for his sister. She was finally transported to Providence Hospital in Danville, Virginia, where she died. Willie Mills reported the incident to law enforcement officer Len Worsham. Three men were charged with manslaughter: J.H. Dillard, J.E. Woodall, and Edward Woodall. Charges against the Woodalls were dismissed before trial. Judge declared a mistrial in the case against Dillard.

Minnie Florence Mills