United States of America
Headstone of Donald Miller
U.S. Army · United States United States

Donald Miller

Died December 25, 2001

Donald Miller served in the U.S. Army.

How He Died
Manner Homicide
Cause Gunshot wound
Mechanism Firearm

Gunfire

What Happened

Detective Donald Miller was shot and killed while off duty when he confronted a man who was driving recklessly in the New Hanover Regional Medical Center parking lot in Wilmington.

The detective and his wife were leaving the hospital after visiting their newborn child when he observed the man speeding and weaving in the parking lot. He confronted the man, who suddenly pulled out a handgun and opened fire, striking Detective Miller. The gunman then attempted to shoot Detective Miller's wife, but Detective Miller was able to push her out of harm's way.

He then fled through the hospital and was later apprehended. Detective Miller succumbed to the gunshot wound two days later.

The killer was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison. He died in prison on December 17, 2014. The shooter was upset that his grandmother's leg had to be amputated and planned a shooting spree at the hospital.

Detective Miller was a United States Army veteran and had served with the New Bern Police Department for four years. He had previously served with the Wilmington Policeton Police Department and the New Hanover Regional Medical Center Special Police.

Detective Miller was a United States Army veteran and had served with the New Bern Police Department for four years. He had previously served with the Wilmington Policeton Police Department and the New Hanover Regional Medical Center Special Police.

Survivors
He is survived by his wife, two sons, his parents, a brother, and a sister.
Media
Donald Miller
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Service Record
U.S. Army
Also Served
New Bern Police Department
Detective
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 13-E · Line 22 cut as DONALD MATTHEW MILLER
In Our Keeping
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Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated August 2, 2026

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In tribute

I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.

Detective Miller gave the New Bern Police Department 10 years.

Thank you for your service to the New Bern community. Thank you for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, brother.

— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993

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