Accused murderers could face death penalty

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Two men accused of two tragic crimes both learned today what their fate could be if they’re found guilty.

Marshall Doran and Harry Davis both went in front of a judge Wednesday to determine whether or not they would face the death penalty. The hearings lasted around 5 minutes each. A Judge ruled both men will face the death penalty at trial.

Prosecutors say Davis set a fire back in December that killed a 14 year old girl and her aunt. It happened off of Lingo St. He is charged with 2 counts of first degree murder, first degree arson and other charges.

Marshall Doran stands accused of starting those fires in Carolina Beach. 2 women were killed in those fires. He is facing dozens of charges including 2 counts of first degree murder, and 11 counts of attempted murder.

Death penalty cases require more from a defendant, legally speaking, including extra attorneys, which is why the District Attorney says this decision is being made quickly.

“That’s why we are at a very early stage to try and make this call within 30 days of indictment,” said District Attorney Ben David. “So that we can make sure that those resources are in place and that’s what we did today.”

As for the next steps, David said it could be some time before these cases go before a judge.

Neither defendant said anything in court today. Their attorneys did not want to comment on the case at this time.