A 23-year-old has been charged with manslaughter after a man he allegedly punched in the head in late August died Wednesday.

Lt. Jack Kennedy of the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit said the suspect, Ryan Gunning, was at the Filling Station bar in downtown Tuscaloosa's Temerson Square on August 31st when he struck 26-year-old Brentson Skidmore once in the head without any weapons.

Skidmore collapsed and was taken to DCH Regional Medical Center, where he underwent surgery for a life-threatening brain injury.

Kennedy said the assault was seen by witnesses and also caught on camera, and Gunning was arrested and charged with third-degree assault. He was booked in the Tuscaloosa County Jail until he was released on bond.

Kennedy said Skidmore's condition steadily deteriorated over time until he was found to be medically deceased. Skidmore was an organ donor, and he was declared dead after doctors completed the procurement process.

Kennedy said investigators have consulted the district attorney and upgraded the charged against Gunning to manslaughter. He was arrested again Friday and will be booked in the Tuscaloosa County Jail on a $30,000 bond.

 

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