Full Breakdown
U.S. Marine Stabbed to Death in Wilmington Brawl: Arrest Made
4/12/2026, 2:12:43 AM
Incident Overview
A U.S. Marine, Lance Corporal Daniel Montano, 21, was fatally stabbed during a chaotic brawl in downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, early Saturday morning. The Wilmington Police Department reported that Davy Spencer, 47, has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder, along with two counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. in the 100 block of North Front Street, a popular area for Marines stationed at Camp Lejeune, approximately 70 miles away.
Response and Investigation
Police officers responded to multiple reports of fights in the area. Video footage shows officers deploying pepper spray before encountering Montano, who was found bleeding heavily on the sidewalk. Despite attempts to assist him, Montano succumbed to his injuries. A second male victim, who initially fled the scene, was later located and received medical attention that ultimately saved his life.
Wilmington Police Chief Ryan Zuidema defended the officers' actions during a media briefing, stating that the chaotic nature of the scene made it difficult for officers to distinguish between suspects and victims. "They have no idea who is who," Zuidema explained, emphasizing the fluid and dangerous environment they faced. He noted that officers were also exposed to pepper spray and followed protocol by calling for emergency medical services.
Community Impact
Montano's family described him as a devoted Marine and a cherished member of their family. They expressed their grief in a GoFundMe campaign created to cover funeral expenses, stating, "To us, he was more than a Marine — he was a son, a brother, and someone who brought so much light into our lives." The Wilmington Police Department extended its condolences to Montano’s family during this difficult time.
Additional Incidents
In a separate but related incident, a 22-year-old woman was also stabbed around the same time in Wilmington and is currently hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. Authorities have arrested Jazya Muldrow-Green, 20, in connection with that case, charging her with assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury.
Official Statements
The Wilmington Police Department has not disclosed the motive behind the brawl. Chief Zuidema reiterated the challenges faced by officers in assessing the situation, highlighting the need for a thorough investigation to understand the events that transpired.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the police have provided details regarding the arrests and charges, there is currently no information available about what specifically triggered the brawl. Further comments from the Wilmington Police Department have been requested but not yet received.
Verbatim Quotes
“They have no idea who is who,” — Ryan Zuidema, Wilmington Police Chief
“They’re dealing with trying to assess what’s going on there,” — Ryan Zuidema, Wilmington Police Chief
"Daniel proudly served as a United States Marine." — Montano's Family
"We extend our condolences to Montano’s family and loved ones during this difficult time." — Wilmington Police Department
