Posted by Travis Uresk | May 7th, 2023 | Assault |
By Travis Uresk
5/7/23
Vernal, Ut.- On 4/30/23, Deputy Embleton responded to a report of an assault at the Gateway Saloon located at 733 East Main St. in Vernal, Ut.
It was reported that three individuals in an assault on another person were leaving the scene in a gray SUV.
When Deputy Embleton arrived at the Saloon, just as the gray SUV occupied by three individuals was leaving the parking lot, the Deputy made contact with the driver. Deputy Ouderkirk made contact with the male seated in the rear seat, identified as 31-year-old Vilivili Josiah Fitisemanu.
During the investigation, it was learned that Vilvili and two other friends had been leaving the bar when they heard some people shouting (what they assumed were racial slurs) at them. Vilivili and his two friends approached the individuals and were involved in a physical altercation, resulting in the victim being hit many times in the face.
Vilivili had evidence of swelling to his knuckles on both hands and blood (not his own) on his hands and clothing. The victim and a witness identified the assailant as wearing a reddish-colored shirt, no hair on his head, and slight facial hair. This matched Vilivili's description.
The victim and the witness stated Vilivili assaulted the victim by pulling him out of his vehicle and hitting him in the face multiple times. The victim had severe swelling to both eyes, swelling on his upper and lower lips, what appeared to be a broken nose, and major discoloration throughout his face.
Vilivili told Deputy Ouderkirk that he had been drinking, which may have contributed to the confrontation.
Deputy Embleton determined due to both the victim and the witness describing what Vilivili was wearing and identifying him as the assailant, along with Vilivili showing evidence of being in a physical altercation, Vilivili was arrested and transported to the Uintah County Jail, where he was booked for assault and public intoxication.
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