Man fights for his life after pub bashing in Bunbury

An alleged altercation outside a Bunbury pub on 15 May, has left one man in hospital where he remains in a critical condition on life-support and another in custody.

According to police, the attack happened just after 10.30pm outside the Prince of Wales Hotel on Stephen Street.

The two men fell to the ground at which point one of them, a 43 year old man, suffered life threatening head injuries and was rushed to the Bunbury Regional Hospital.

A 29 year old man has been arrested by homicide squad detectives and police say he is assisting them with their investigation.

So far, no charges have been laid.

Police are looking for witnesses to the incident. It is understood there were a number of people outside the venue at the time.

The attack was described as a “horrible tragedy” by Police Minister Paul Papalia.

“It’s incredibly wasteful when people, invariably through alcohol or other illicit drugs, do things that are just senseless and end up with people potentially losing their life,” he said.

“Homicide are down there investigating so it’s not going to be a good outcome,” he told 6PR.

“It’s so tragic — obviously for the victim but also for the perpetrator and everyone’s families involved.”

WA Premier Mark McGowan wants people to “turn the other cheek” when fights look likely to occur, describing the altercation as a “very, very shocking situation”.

“When you come out of a pub, nightclub or bar and you’ve had a few drinks, turn the other cheek and don’t get involved in a fight, if anything is happening go home,” Mr McGowan said.

Police have called on any witnesses to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Irit Jackson, 18th May 2021