Man will spend at least 26 years in prison for Wilmington murder
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A New Hanover County man pleaded guilty to murder charges after he attacked and robbed a man, who later died from his injures, in his home in the Sunset Park neighborhood in 2016.
William Fought, 25, pleaded guilty Thursday in court for second degree murder.
On March 20, 2016, just before 6:00 p.m., David Leroy Clark, 55, was attacked and robbed in his home at 513 Alabama Avenue in Wilmington. He was severely beaten and was hospitalized at New Hanover Regional Medical Center due to his life-threatening injuries.
Clark survived for some time, but later died to his injuries on April 8, 2016.
On March 20, 2016, Donna Beck drove William Fought, Mark Landreth, and Joshua Chavis to the home of her acquaintance, Clark. Two of the men attempted to kick in the door but were unable. Beck drove them back to Clark’s home and knocked on his door.
When Clark opened the door, the men assaulted and robbed the victim of money, prescription medication, and watches. The defendants fled the scene. The victim was ultimately able to call for help and was taken to the hospital.
Police quickly identified Beck as a suspect. She told investigators that she had given the men a ride to the victim’s home. Beck believed the men looked as if something aggressive was going to happen. Beck stated that she then left the scene. Prior to driving to the victim’s home, Beck heard the others say that if the victim did not give up his property, they would beat him and take everything he had.
Fought also entered pleas of guilty to assaulting two law enforcement officers and spitting on one officer during his time in custody of the New Hanover County Jail. He was ordered to serve a minimum of 26 years and a maximum of 32.25 years in prison.
