Man fighting for his life after suspect beat him with skateboard

COLUMBUS, Ohio ( WCMH ) — A suspect was charged with felonious assault after repeatedly striking a man with a skateboard, sending him to the hospital in critical condition.

Columbus Police Patrol officers were dispatched to the 1300 block of N High Street shortly before 2 p.m. Friday after reports of a fight between two men near the Kroger. Upon their arrival, officers said they found the victim with severe head injuries.

Officers also located a suspect near the scene on the direction of witnesses. Adrian Ashley, 46, was arrested and charged with felonious assault. He was scheduled to appear in court for his arraignment Saturday at 9 a.m.

According to witnesses, Ashely knocked the victim out, then struck him repeatedly with his skateboard. When walking away, Ashley allegedly kicked his head as well.

The victim was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Police said due to the severity of the injuries, the homicide unit is investigating the case. Police also said he is not expected to survive at this time.

Ashley has past charges ranging several decades, including a three-year sentence in 2004 for involuntary manslaughter and felonious assault, according to court documents.

Police said they believe several witnesses may have recorded the assault, and detectives would like to speak with them regarding their observations and any video they may have captured. If anyone has information about the incident, they are asked to call the homicide unit at 614-645-4730, or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers to report anonymously at 614-461-TIPS (8477).

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