Authorities have arrested a man in North Carolina for allegedly stabbing a US Marine to death during a large street brawl that was captured on video, leading to significant scrutiny of the local police’s response. The Wilmington Police Department reported that Davy Spencer, 47, faces charges of second-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill. He is accused of fatally stabbing 21-year-old Daniel Montano during a major altercation in downtown Wilmington around 2 a.m. last Sunday.
Daniel Montano, a lance corporal stationed at Camp Lejeune, located approximately 70 miles away, was one of two individuals stabbed during the incident.
The Wilmington Police Department faced criticism for its handling of the violent incident after disturbing footage emerged online. The video shows the marine, who was later pronounced dead, hunched over in a pool of blood as officers attempted to disperse the fight.
The viral video depicts several men fighting in the street as Wilmington police arrived and used pepper spray. Moments later, the camera shifts to the sidewalk, revealing Montano pointing to his neck as he collapses, prompting officers to rush to his aid.
While officers struggled to assist him, a bystander stepped in, removing his shirt to wrap around Montano’s neck and applying pressure to try to stop the bleeding.
Montano and the other stabbing victim were taken to a local hospital, but Montano later died from his injuries.
A native of California, Montano served in the 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines Regiment at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville. His sister, Evelyn, expressed her grief, noting his dedication to his country and the love he received from his family. She stated on a fundraising page to support funeral and memorial costs, “To us, he was more than a Marine – he was a son, a brother, and someone who brought so much light into our lives.”
In response to the criticism, police defended their actions during the chaotic scene, stating to Star News Online that they acted appropriately given the situation. However, the officers involved have been placed on paid administrative leave as the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation takes over the case.
Spencer, who resides in Wilmington, is being held without bond, according to reports.
