An 18-year-old, Ethan Zander Melton, has been arrested and charged following a tragic drunk-driving incident that claimed the life of Montez Loftin, a Wilmington, North Carolina resident, and seriously injured another individual.
The incident occurred on December 1, 2024, around 1:38 a.m., in Rocky Point, North Carolina. According to sources from The North Carolina Beat, Loftin and another victim, Anais Watterson, were leaving a bonfire when Melton allegedly struck them with his vehicle.
Multiple Injuries and A Fatality
Montez Loftin tragically lost his life at the scene. Anais Watterson survived but sustained severe injuries requiring multiple surgeries. She is reported to be recovering. Witnesses at the bonfire described the scene, with some having to jump out of Melton’s path to avoid being struck. Witnesses also noted that Melton rammed into other vehicles as he fled.
Charges Filed Against Melton
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol has charged Melton with multiple offenses, including:
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
- Driving After Consuming Alcohol or Drugs Under the Age of 21
- Felony Death by Vehicle
- Two Counts of Felony Hit-and-Run
