Rocky Point man charged with death by distribution in Wilmington overdose

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A Rocky Point man is facing multiple charges, including death by distribution, following a January overdose at a Wilmington hotel, according to police.

Officers with the Wilmington Police Department responded on Jan. 23 to the 4900 block of Market Street after receiving a report of an unconscious man.

When officers arrived, they found Daniel Francom dead inside a hotel room. Investigators determined he died from a heroin overdose. Police said methamphetamine was also found inside the room.

After what authorities described as an extensive investigation, 33-year-old Neill McLauchlin of Rocky Point was arrested Monday.

McLauchlin is charged with death by distribution of certain controlled substances. He also faces several other felony charges, including Death by Distribution of Certain Controlled Substances, Felony Breaking or Entering, Larceny After Breaking/Entering, Felony Conspiracy, Larceny, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Sell Schedule II Controlled Substance, and PWIMSD Schedule II Controlled Substance, among other charges.

He is being held without bond at the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center.