Dylan Rasmussen Obituary, Death Cause – Authorities in Onslow County, North Carolina, are investigating an incident that claimed the life of a U.S. Marine following what officials believe may have been a road-related confrontation. The event occurred on Sunday afternoon, October 19, along Burgaw Highway.
According to the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and emergency responders were called to the scene after reports of an altercation between two drivers. Upon arrival, officers found 31-year-old Dylan Rasmussen, an active-duty U.S. Marine, with a serious injury. He was quickly transported to the Naval Medical Center at Camp Lejeune for emergency treatment, but despite medical efforts, Rasmussen sadly passed away.
Investigators later identified 43-year-old James Wells as the individual involved in the incident. Wells was taken into custody by Sunday evening and booked into the Onslow County Jail. Authorities have stated that the situation appears to have escalated after a dispute between the two men — Rasmussen, who was riding a motorcycle, and Wells, who was driving another vehicle.
An arrest warrant filed in the case alleges that Wells stopped his vehicle on Burgaw Highway, leading to a verbal confrontation between the two. During the exchange, investigators say a firearm was used, resulting in Rasmussen’s fatal injury. Law enforcement officials emphasized that they are still reviewing all evidence, including witness statements, traffic footage, and physical evidence from the scene, to gain a full understanding of what transpired.
James Lewis Wells(Onslow County Sheriff’s Office)
Following his arrest, Wells appeared in court on Monday, October 20, where his bond was set at $500,000. According to court documents, if released, Wells would be prohibited from possessing any firearms while awaiting trial. The Onslow County Sheriff’s Office has continued to work closely with prosecutors to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation.
The tragic loss has deeply affected both the local community and the military family at Camp Lejeune, where Rasmussen served. A GoFundMe page created to support his family described him as a devoted husband, father, and Marine who was deeply committed to both his duty and his loved ones. The page’s message stated that Rasmussen “dedicated his life not only to serving his country but, above all, to caring for and protecting his family.”
Friends, colleagues, and members of the Marine Corps community have shared tributes, expressing their sorrow and admiration for Rasmussen’s service and character. Many have described him as hardworking, compassionate, and deeply respected by those who knew him. The campaign has received an outpouring of support from across the country, reflecting the widespread impact of his loss.
Officials have not yet released additional details about what led to the encounter or how it escalated. Sheriff’s investigators are examining every aspect of the case to determine the sequence of events and whether other factors contributed. They have also asked anyone who may have witnessed the incident or noticed unusual activity in the area that afternoon to contact the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office.
The sheriff’s office and local leaders have urged community members to remain calm and allow the investigation to run its course. They expressed their condolences to Rasmussen’s family, emphasizing that the department is committed to finding answers and ensuring justice is served appropriately.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Camp Lejeune called Rasmussen’s passing a tremendous loss to the Marine Corps community, adding that counseling and support services have been made available for those affected by the tragedy. “We mourn the loss of a dedicated Marine who served his country with honor,” the spokesperson said.
The incident has also sparked renewed conversations about roadway safety and conflict de-escalation. Law enforcement officials have reminded drivers to remain patient and avoid confrontations on the road, emphasizing that tensions can quickly lead to irreversible outcomes.
As of now, the case remains under investigation by the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office in collaboration with state authorities. No further details about the court proceedings or timeline have been released. Meanwhile, Rasmussen’s family, friends, and fellow Marines continue to honor his life and service, remembering him as both a patriot and a loving family man.
