Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office press release: 

On Monday, November 9, 2015 at about 10:45 p.m. the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office responded to Redwood Memorial Hospital in Fortuna for a report of an assault victim. Deputies arrived at the hospital and were able to speak with the 45 year old male victim. The victim stated he was sleeping on the side of the road off of “The Avenue” [HWY 254] near Myers Flat. As he was lying down a male suspect approximately six feet tall and wearing a knitted beanie came up behind him from the wooded area along the roadway. The suspect began to hit the victim with a large wooden stick. The victim was unable to recall anything that happened after he was beaten, and could not recollect how he arrived at the hospital. The victim is in critical condition.

Deputies concluded their interview with the victim at this time. Deputy Sheriff’s located the crime scene and were able to collect evidence supporting the victim’s statement. Deputies checked the area for the suspect with negative results. This case has been forwarded to the Criminal Investigations Division for further investigation.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.