Officers responded at about 2 a.m. on Sunday, April 5, after there were reports of multiple fights in downtown Wilmington. Two men were stabbed, according to an April 7 news release from the Wilmington Police Department.
One of the victims, identified as Daniel Montano, later died from his injuries. The incident was filmed as the police arrived to break up the fight. Montano is seen on the sidewalk, hunched over and bleeding as the police and a bystander rendered aid.
Police said the investigation remains active as detectives work to identify and locate an individual believed to be connected to the incident.
The person of interest is described as a black man of medium build. He was wearing a light-colored fleece-lined denim jacket, light-colored denim pants, a pink shirt, and white sneakers with blue and red accents.
He was also wearing what appeared to be a dark blue head covering, with long hair extending from beneath, according to the release.
Investigators are urging anyone who was in the downtown Wilmington area between midnight and 3 a.m. on April 5 to come forward with information.
Authorities specifically requested cell phone photos or videos, dash camera footage, business surveillance recordings, and any observations related to the incident, "no matter how minor they may seem."
"Even small details can be critical to the investigation," the department said.
Tips can be submitted directly to the police through a digital evidence portal or by contacting a department detective. Anonymous tips are also accepted.
The Wilmington Police Department said it “extends its condolences to Mr. Montano’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
"He was more than a Marine — he was a son, a brother, and someone who brought so much light into our lives," the family wrote.