Charges dropped against Cumberland County man accused in Wilmington assault; investigation continues

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Charges have been dropped against a Cumberland County man who was accused of assaulting and strangling a 22-year-old Michigan woman who had moved to New Hanover County just 17 days before the alleged incident.

According to the New Hanover County District Attorney’s Office, felony charges against 27-year-old Dillon Garza were dismissed because there was insufficient evidence to support prosecution and because evidence corroborated his alibi.

Garza had previously been charged with felony assault by strangulation and felony assault inflicting serious bodily injury following an alleged assault that authorities said occurred Sunday in Wilmington.

According to an arrest warrant, the victim, Savannah Johnson, suffered multiple severe injuries to her neck, throat and mid-spine. The exact location of the alleged assault has not been publicly confirmed.

Johnson’s parents, Amanda and Ricky Johnson, told WWAY their daughter continues to recover from serious injuries, including a fractured vertebra and significant damage to her throat. They said she is struggling to breathe as a result of her injuries.

The Johnsons said they do not know whether there was any connection between Garza and their daughter.

Amanda Johnson said Savannah recently graduated from college and had been visiting family in Wilmington while exploring employment opportunities as an artist. The family said she had relocated to New Hanover County just 17 days before the alleged assault.

Although the charges against Garza have been dismissed, the case remains under active investigation by the Wilmington Police Department.

Because the investigation is ongoing, the District Attorney’s Office said it will not provide additional comment at this time.

Anyone with information related to the assault is encouraged to contact the Wilmington Police Department at (910) 343-3600.

The investigation remains ongoing.