New Hanover deputies investigate murder

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The investigation continues into an early-morning murder in New Hanover County.

Wilmington Police say the man New Hanover County deputies arrested for the crime was the suspect of a domestic dispute early yesterday evening.

WPD was dispatched to a room at the Quality Inn in the 4900 block of Market Street late last night. The victim told police Adam Allen Morton assaulted her and then ran. Police got a warrant for his arrest only to find out he’d also been accused of murder.

Sheriff’s Office spokesman Lt. Jerry Brewer says WPD asked the Sheriff’s Office to check out a house at 103 Gale Road early this morning after receiving a tip while they were looking into the domestic situation. When deputies got to the house they found a man dead inside.

Deputies arrested Morton, 23. He is charged with first-degree murder and assault by strangulation. Morton is in the New Hanover County Jail without bond.

No details have been released on whether Morton knew the victim. The victim’s name has not yet been released, but Brewer says he was not the owner of the home he was found in.

Brewer says the investigation continues.