UPDATE: Police Respond to Fight that Resulted in Injuries

On May 25, 2025, at approximately 1:56 a.m., New Bern Police responded to an emergency call from the security staff at Pinky’s Pub, 218 Middle Street, regarding a large fight. Officers responded within seconds of the call and witnessed a large crowd of people in front of Pinky’s, many of whom were arguing and yelling. New Bern Police interviewed the security staff at Pinky’s and learned a fight had started inside the pub. That’s when staff say they closed the bar and forced everyone out.

Once police arrived, the crowd began to disperse. Officers followed the crowd as they headed towards South Front Street. Within two minutes, another fight broke out on South Front Street between the same individuals involved in the fight inside the pub. As officers intervened to break it up, a New Bern police officer suffered a serious knife injury to his arm. Preston Blount, 34-years-old, was stabbed. Both were taken to ECU Health in Greenville, treated and released.

The details provided in the original press release remain the same. The incident has been meticulously investigated to include reviews of multiple body worn cameras and interviews with staff and eyewitnesses.

Preston Blount has been charged with:

· Disorderly Conduct

· Resist, Obstruct, and Delay

For Immediate Release May 25, 2025

Police Respond to Fight that Resulted in Injuries

On May 25, 2025, at approximately 1:56 a.m., a fight broke out at Pinky’s Pub, located at 218 Middle Street. During the incident, one person was stabbed and was transported to ECU Health in Greenville for treatment. He was identified as Preston Blount, 34 years-old. While attempting to arrest those involved, a New Bern police officer suffered a serious knife injury to his arm and was also transported to ECU Health in Greenville. Both victims are listed in fair condition.

As a result of this altercation, the following suspects have been arrested and charged.

Aaron Carter, 33 years-of-age

· Assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury

· Assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury on an emergency worker

William Blount, 33 years-of-age

· Disorderly Conduct

· Resist, Obstruct, and Delay
 

Layla Anderson, 29 years-of-age female (No photo available)

· Disorderly Conduct

· Assault on a Government Official

· Resist, Obstruct, and Delay

All three individuals have a first appearance set for Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Aaron Carter is being held under no bond. William Blount is being held on a $4,000 secured bond. Layla Anderson is being held on a $7,500 secured bond.

Citizens are encouraged to become a “Partner in Policing” by reporting suspected illegal activity to the New Bern Police Department at (252) 633-2020 or the TIPS line at (252) 636-5034. You may also contact the Craven County Crime Stopper line at (252) 633-5141 or submit an online tip at p3tips.com/986. For additional information, please contact Lieutenant R. J. Holton with the New Bern Police Department at (252) 672-4289.