Man charged in fatal stabbing of Marine to make first court appearance

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A 47-year-old man accused in the fatal stabbing of a U.S. Marine is scheduled to make his first court appearance Monday afternoon.

Wilmington Police said they arrested Davy Spencer on April 10th in connection with the death of 21-year-old Daniel Montano. Spencer faces multiple charges, including second-degree murder and two counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill.

Officers responded around 2 a.m. on April 5th to reports of multiple fights along North Front Street, where investigators say Montano was stabbed. Montano, a Marine stationed at Camp Lejeune, later died despite life-saving efforts.

A memorial has since been placed near the scene of the stabbing.

Police said photos shared by the department showed Spencer walking along the street shortly after the altercation, which helped lead to his arrest.

Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo praised law enforcement efforts in the case.

“Our men and women worked overtime to make sure we captured that individual that committed that crime,” Saffo said. “He will have his day in court, but I want to congratulate the Wilmington Police Department and also the sheriff’s department. A lot of people came together to make sure we get this person.”

Spencer remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court at 2 p.m. Monday. Bond information was not immediately available.