A 49-year-old man is facing an attempted murder charge after what St. Petersburg police describe as a brutal attack that left another man disfigured in Bartlett Park earlier this month. Officers found the victim lying on a picnic-table bench with severe head and facial trauma, and he was listed in critical condition at Bayfront's trauma center. Authorities say the suspect, identified as D'Eauary Thurman, has been charged with attempted murder and robbery and was booked into the Pinellas County Jail, where bond was set at $300,000.
According to Tampa Bay 28, the assault unfolded at about 6:25 a.m. on July 6, when Thurman allegedly walked up to the victim and began to "punch, kick and stomp" him. The outlet reports that a witness later positively identified Thurman, and investigators say video obtained in the case appears to show the attack in progress.
Where It Happened
Bartlett Park sits just south of downtown St. Pete and includes the Frank W. Pierce recreation complex along with public green space that sees regular use from early-morning visitors and local leagues. City listings and park pages note that the area is managed by the city's parks department and draws steady neighborhood activity. More details on the park's location and facilities can be found via Creative Pinellas.
Police Say Video, Witness Tied Suspect To Scene
Tampa Bay 28 reports that after the beating, Thurman removed an item from the victim’s backpack and slipped it into his pocket, then walked off after filling a water bottle at a nearby fountain. Police say Thurman was then booked into the Pinellas County Jail on attempted murder and robbery charges, with bond set at $300,000.
What Police Are Asking
The St. Petersburg Police Department is asking anyone with information about the attack to contact investigators or submit an anonymous tip through Tip-411. Detectives are particularly urging people who may have video or direct eyewitness information to come forward to help with the case.
