Repeat Offender Charged in Marine’s Killing Raises Questions About Prior Releases in Wilmington

47-year-old suspect with decades-long criminal history held without bond after fatal stabbing

Wilmington, NC — A 21-year-old U.S. Marine was fatally stabbed in downtown Wilmington, and the suspect now charged in his killing has a decades-long violent criminal history that is drawing scrutiny over prior releases from custody.

Davy Spencer, 47, is accused of stabbing Lance Cpl. Daniel Montano in the neck during an altercation on April 5, 2026, in the 100 block of North Front Street, according to local reports, and is now being held without bond on multiple charges.

Suspect’s crimi...