Police defend actions as investigation continues into downtown fight.
WILMINGTON, N.C. — A fatal stabbing in downtown Wilmington is drawing increased scrutiny after video of the police response surfaced online, showing the chaotic aftermath of an early morning fight that left a 21-year-old Marine dead.
The footage, widely shared on social media, has prompted questions from community members about how officers handled the scene. Officials say the situation was fast-moving and complex, as multiple fights and victims were reported within a short period early Sunday.
Police responded shortly after 2 a.m. April 5 to reports of several altercations in the downtown entertainment district. Authorities said two men were stabbed during one of the incidents. Lance Cpl. Daniel Montano later died from his injuries at a hospital, while another victim survived.
In the video, officers appear to be managing a crowd and using pepper spray to disperse people involved in the fight before approaching an injured man on the sidewalk. A bystander is seen attempting to help the victim by applying pressure to a wound as officers move in.
Wilmington Police Chief Ryan Zuidema said the clip does not capture the full scope of the situation officers faced. “They don’t know who’s a suspect, who’s a victim,” Zuidema said in remarks to local media, explaining that officers must first secure the scene before providing aid.
Officials say officers must also assess whether additional threats are present, including whether a suspect remains nearby or if there are other injured individuals. Standard procedures, such as wearing protective gloves and calling for medical assistance, were also factors in the response timeline, police said.
The incident has unfolded alongside a separate stabbing that occurred just a block away around the same time. In that case, a woman suffered serious injuries, and a suspect has been arrested. Authorities have said the two cases are not connected.
Meanwhile, investigators continue to search for a man identified as a person of interest in Montano’s death. Police released images showing a man wearing a light denim jacket, jeans, a pink shirt and white sneakers, along with a dark head covering.
Detectives say the investigation is ongoing and involves reviewing surveillance footage, collecting witness statements and analyzing evidence from the scene. The department has asked anyone with information or video from the area to come forward.
The case has also raised broader concerns about public safety and policing in Wilmington’s downtown district, a popular area for nightlife and visitors, including service members from nearby Camp Lejeune.
City officials have indicated they are reviewing how information about the incident was released, after some criticism over delays and limited details in the early stages of the investigation.
Police say their focus remains on identifying those responsible for the fatal stabbing and ensuring a thorough investigation. No arrests have been announced in connection with Montano’s death.
Authorities said updates will be provided as new information becomes available, including any developments in locating the person of interest.
Author note: Last updated April 10, 2026.