From Kim Minugh:
Sacramento County park rangers continue to investigate a June 27 brawl at River Bend Park that left one young man critically injured.
Matthew Wright, 22, suffered traumatic brain injury in the alcohol-fueled fight, which broke out shortly after 8 p.m. between two groups that had spent the afternoon rafting on the American River, according to authorities.
Park rangers appealed for the public's help early this month, saying their investigation had stalled with two opposing versions of how the brawl transpired. But after media coverage of the fight, Ranger David Moskat said several people came forward with accounts of what happened.
Authorities are transcribing more than 12 hours of interviews, and, once complete, the findings will be forwarded to the District Attorney's office for review, Moskat said. It could be seven to 10 days, or longer, before that happens, he said.
Moskat said versions of what happened that day still differ, but that it appears it was a "mutual combat" situation until someone struck the victim - Wright - with a heavy flashlight. That person later was located and interviewed, but has not been arrested.
Decisions as to whether anyone will be arrested and prosecuted will be made by the DA's office, Moskat said.
Tammi Chase-Wright, Wright's aunt, told The Bee recently that the young man's condition has improved, but that he remains unable to speak on his own or use his arms and legs.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call park rangers at (916) 875-7275. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.
About Comments
Reader comments on Sacbee.com are the opinions of the writer, not The Sacramento Bee. If you see an objectionable comment, click the "report abuse" button below it. We will delete comments containing inappropriate links, obscenities, hate speech, and personal attacks. Flagrant or repeat violators will be banned. See more about comments here.