WPD seek person of interest after deadly downtown stabbing

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — The Wilmington Police Department is asking for the public’s help identifying a person of interest in connection to a deadly stabbing that happened early Sunday, April 5, in downtown Wilmington.

Police said officers responded around 2 a.m. Sunday, to reports of multiple fights in the downtown area. During the incident, two adult men were stabbed. One of the victims, identified as 21-year-old Daniel Montano, later died from his injuries.

Police extended condolences to Montano’s family and said detectives are working to identify and locate a person of interest seen in the area.

According to investigators, the individual is described as an adult black male with a medium build. He was last seen wearing a light-colored fleece-lined denim jacket, light-colored denim pants, a pink shirt and white sneakers with blue and red accents. Police said he also appeared to be wearing a dark blue head covering, with long hair visible underneath.

Investigators are asking anyone who was in downtown Wilmington between midnight and 3 a.m. Sunday, April 5, to come forward with information. Police said that includes cell phone photos or videos, dash camera footage, business surveillance or any observations that could assist the investigation.

The department is using a secure digital evidence portal for submissions, which go directly into its evidence system.

In a separate incident just minutes later, officers responded at approximately 2:12 a.m. Sunday, April 5, to a fight in the 0 block of North Front Street. Police said they found a 22-year-old woman suffering from severe stab wounds. She was taken to Novant New Hanover Regional Medical Center with life-threatening injuries.

Police said the two incidents are not related. Both investigations remain active.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Wilmington Police Department at 910-343-3600 or submit tips anonymously through Tip411.