N.C. Gen. Stat. § 90-603: Timely notification of next of kin.

A State or local law enforcement officer shall make a reasonable effort to notify the next of kin of an accident-trauma victim if the individual is hospitalized or dead. Whenever possible, the notification should be delivered in person and without delay after ensuring positive identification. If appropriate under the circumstances, the notification may be given by telephone in accordance with State and local law enforcement departmental policies. In addition to the notification of next of kin made by law enforcement personnel, other emergency rescue or hospital personnel may contact the next of kin, or the nearest organ procurement organization, in order to expedite decision making with regard to potential organ and tissue recovery. (1997-443, s. 20.12(b).)