A homicide investigation is underway in Spring Lake after authorities identified a 65-year-old man as the victim in a fatal incident early Tuesday morning, with law enforcement now actively searching for a suspect.
According to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at approximately 4:49 a.m. on February 4, 2026, to a reported stabbing in the 2500 block of East Brinkley Drive in Spring Lake. The location is near East Manchester Road and Highway 210.
When deputies arrived, they found an adult male suffering from injuries caused by a sharp object. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities later identified him as Donald Snow, 65, of Spring Lake. Officials confirmed that next of kin has been notified.
Investigators with the Sheriff’s Office have identified the victim’s brother, George Snow Jr., 68, also of Spring Lake, as the suspect in the case. He is wanted on a charge of first-degree murder in connection with the incident and was featured in a public information graphic released by authorities.
Law enforcement officials said Snow Jr. was last seen on foot in the area of East Brinkley Drive. At the time he was last observed, he was reportedly wearing a black, blue, and white jacket, black-and-white plaid pajama pants, and white sneakers. He is described as having white hair and a white beard.
Investigators emphasized that the incident does not appear to be random and stated there is no ongoing threat to the general public at this time.
The investigation remains active as detectives continue working to locate the suspect and gather additional evidence. Authorities said more information will be released as it becomes available.
Anyone with information related to the investigation or the whereabouts of George Snow Jr. is asked to contact Detective Senior Sergeant McLeod with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office at 910-677-5548. Tips may also be submitted anonymously by calling 910-483-8477.
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