Friends: Stabbing victim a ‘great guy,’ big loss to music community

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — We’re learning more about a deadly stabbing overnight.

Ben Privott (Photo: 98.3 The Penguin/Facebook)

The spokesman said it happened around 2 a.m. on Bracken Fern Drive. That’s where they said deputies found a man, Benjamin Paul Privott, 39 lying in a yard.

According to the 911 call, the woman who identifies herself as the victim’s fiance initially thought Privott was hit by a car. She later discovered the stab wound on his chest, according to the emotional call.

Friends said Privott was a great guy who loved music. He regularly performed in the Wilmington area. Scott Wagner, the owner of the Goat and Compass, sent WWAY a statement.

“He always had a smile on his face; was happy to be wherever he was at that particular moment.  I am married to the love of my life, and I look at my wife the way Ben looks at Sarah.  There are couples you meet that you know are just meant to be together. It’s just a shame that his life was taken too abruptly, and so violently. The Wilmington music community lost a great one today.  It’s just hard to accept that.”

Friend Matt Barbour said he’s devastated by the loss of his friend but remembering his sense of humor has gotten him through the day.

“The nicest guy you’ve ever met, honestly, I can’t think of anybody nicer, just gentle and kind and always had a good story, always had a smile,” Barbour said.

Deputies do not believe anyone in the area is in danger.