In order to prove that defendant's actions were "willful or wanton," the State need not prove malice. State v. Casey, 60 N.C. App. 414, 417, 299 S.E.2d 235, 237 (1983) (citing State v. Sneed, 121 N.C. 614, 28 S.E. 365 (1897)). "[W]ilful as used in criminal statutes means the wrongful doing of an act without justification or excuse, or the commission of an act purposely and deliberately in violation of the law."
It is not necessary to prove that defendant was acting with malice toward Wheeler when he hit his truck to convict him under G.S. 14-160. State v. Sneed, 121 N.C. 614, 28 S.E. 365 (1897). We also note that defendant did not object to the jury instructions on wanton and willful conduct.