RELEASE DATE: 8/17/2017
NEWS RELEASE
Another Black Eye on our Lejeune Marines!
On December 25, 2016, Onslow County Sheriff’s Office uniform patrol deputies responded to a residence on Blossom Court in Maple Hill for a report that a subject had been shot. Upon arrival, deputies identified the victim as Kevin Tamayo, a 21-year-old white male. Tamayo had been shot in the stomach with a shotgun. Tamayo was transported to the New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington for treatment.
Detectives responded and investigation revealed that the suspect, Peter Anthony Stellato, 23 years old, made contradictory statements to sheriff’s detectives and Naval Criminal Investigative Services agents. Both Stellato and Tamayo were Marines stationed at the New River Air Station at the time of the incident.
Due to the victim’s medical condition the investigation was stalled. Recently discovered information has led to Stellato being charged with:
Assault with a Deadly Weapon Inflicting Serious Injury
Assault by Pointing a Gun
Discharging a Firearm Within 500 Feet of an Occupied Dwelling
Stellato was arrested on August 16, 2017 and transported to the Onslow County Detention Center under a $35,000 secured bond.
The victim is still recovering from his injuries.
Anyone with information about this incident may contact Onslow County Sheriff’s Office at 910-455-3113, Det. M. Gibbs at Michael_gibbs@onslowcountync.gov, or Crime Stoppers at 910-938-3273.
Please refer to case 2016024971 when calling.
Crime Stoppers offers cash reward of up to $2,500 for information that is deemed of value or assistance to law enforcement. Information can also be anonymously texted via Text-A-Tip by typing TIP4CSJAX and your message to 274637 (CRIMES). Callers to Crime Stoppers may remain anonymous and never have to reveal their identity.