WILMINGTON — A juvenile is being charged with a holiday weekend assault that took place on a security guard in an affluent gated neighborhood near Wrightsville Beach.
The 17-year-old faces a felony assault inflicting serious bodily injuries on Russell James, a security guard with Landfall, who was attacked on Friday, July 3. Since the offender is a juvenile, Wilmington Police Department has not released the name of the suspect; however, they expect more charges are forthcoming, as the investigation remains open.
WPD told Port City Daily they’ve been investigating the event since arriving on the scene, and have been reviewing evidence and collecting 9-1-1 calls. A public records request was put in for the 9-1-1 call but hasn’t been returned to Port City Daily by the county yet.
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The Country Club of Landfall fireworks show was taking place during the holiday weekend when James was attacked. Though WPD didn’t run down the events of the evening upon request, a GoFundMe for the security guard and multiple videos sent to Port City Daily and circulating social media sites piece together somewhat how it unfolded.
James went to break up an altercation involving underage drinkers when he was attacked, according to his GoFundMe. He suffered a black eye, vision impairment, concussion and other physical injuries that will require ongoing medical care. James also has a personal injury and workers comp lawyer, Alan Castro, from Horton and Mendez Accident and Injury Lawyers, who could not be reached by press for comment.
Two videos were anonymously sent to Port City Daily of the incident; one shows a teenager punching James directly.
Another video shows a group of teenagers jumping on a golf cart and attacking another man, while fireworks are going off in the background. Someone pulls the teens off, who are screaming: “We run s**t in Wilmington” and “Let’s f**king go!”
Port City Daily reached out to the man on the golf cart for an interview, but he said lawyers advised him not to speak.
Neither video PCD received has been verified, which is why it’s not being shared; WPD didn’t answer whether they, too, received the evidence and are looking into it.
The Country Club of Landfall and the Landfall Council of Associations released a media statement after the incident noting they are “deeply disturbed” by the “unwarranted assault.” They added James has worked for the club for 40 years and planned to do a “full internal review” while cooperating with law enforcement to hold all involved accountable.
”We are also gathering statements and video from individuals who were present,” the release noted. “The safety of our staff, members, residents, and guests remains our highest priority. CCL and COA do not condone the actions that took place and remain committed to supporting those affected while the investigation continues. We appreciate the Wilmington community’s patience and support during this difficult time.”
The security guard’s GoFundMe aims to raise $80,000, now 90% reached, and states: “Russell has been a steadfast presence in our community for many years. Time and again, he has worked to keep our neighborhoods safe, looked out for all of us, and been there whenever someone needed help. Now, he needs our help.”
Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Wilmington Police Department at (910) 343- 3600 or submit tips anonymously through Tip 411.
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