A U.S. Marine was allegedly stabbed to death April 5 during a street fight in downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, according to authorities.
Around 2 a.m. on April 5, officers responded to reports of multiple fights in downtown Wilmington, according to a Wilmington Police Department (WPD) press release. Two males, including 21-year-old Daniel Montano, were allegedly stabbed during the incident, police said.
While Montano was transported to a local hospital, he ultimately succumbed to his injuries, according to Newsweek. Police also have not yet disclosed the identity of the other male victim. (RELATED: Teacher Keeps Job After Allegedly ‘Licking’ Student’s Foot On Video)
A 42-second video of the alleged incident has been viewed over 20,000 times on X. In the video, a male dressed in dark clothing can be seen doubled over with blood flowing from his neck. A bystander appears to remove his shirt to help the male victim as police also step in to offer aid.
Montano was identified as a lance corporal in the U.S. Marines by his sister Evelyn Montano on a GoFundMe fundraiser set up to cover his funeral expenses. Montano was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines Regiment at Camp Lejeune, according to his sister.
“He was not only dedicated to his country, but also deeply loved by his family. To us, he was more than a Marine — he was a son, a brother, and someone who brought so much light into our lives.”
“Losing Daniel so suddenly has left our family heartbroken and unprepared for the emotional and financial burden that comes with this tragedy. We are asking for support to help cover funeral expenses, memorial services, and other unexpected costs during this incredibly difficult time,” Montano’s sister said.
The video of the alleged incident that claimed Montano’s life has brought scrutiny to the WPD, according to Star News Online.
Police Chief Ryan Zuidema defended his officers’ actions.
“They’re dealing with trying to assess what’s going on there,” Zuidema said, according to the outlet. “They don’t know if there are other victims around. They don’t know if the suspect is still close by, and there’s a lot going on.”
The WPD is also searching for a person of interest in connection with the incident, according to the press release.