WINCHENDON, Mass. (AP) — Authorities say what started as a fist fight between two men inside a Massachusetts home has developed into a death investigation.
Police responded to the Winchendon home Tuesday night for reports of a fight.
Friends said the men were socializing when they got in a fight over beer.
One man was unresponsive when they arrived.
The victim, described only as a 32-year-old Don O’Malley, was pronounced dead at Heywood Hospital in Gardner.
Police say the other man involved in the fight, 49-year-old Thomas Maxwell was arrested and charged with aggravated assault and battery.
He was arraigned Wednesday.
In court, prosecutors said the assault charge may not be the only charge, pending the medical examiner’s autopsy.
Friends of the victim said he had medical problems, including heart and kidney issues.
They said O’Malley’s family will not press charges against Maxwell.
A judge ordered Maxwell held on $50,000 cash bail.
Family of Winchendon man dead after fight says it was accident. Don't want charges against friend. #7News pic.twitter.com/hU3V6KtOdT
— Dan Hausle (@dhausleon7) August 10, 2016
Suspect in Winchendon death arraigned on assault charge. Def Atty says minor scuffle over beer led to fall and death #7News
— Dan Hausle (@dhausleon7) August 10, 2016
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