Man could face murder charge after victim dies of injuries
SAN JOSE, Calif. (KTVU) - A man may be facing a murder charge after the victim he allegedly assaulted in May died earlier this month, a police spokesman said Thursday.
Dien Dao Tran, 37, of San Jose, allegedly fought with 49-year-old William Michael Hanney in the 3800 block of Muir Place Court on May 15, police Sgt. Enrique Garcia said.
Officers were called to the scene that day shortly before noon on a report of a fight and a victim with a head injury that needed medical attention, Garcia said.
A preliminary investigation indicated that the suspect and vehicle were in an argument that escalated into an assault, according to Garcia.
Tran allegedly kicked Hanney's head multiple times, Garcia said.
The men both lived at a group home for mentally disabled, the spokesman said.
Officers arrested Tran that day on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon and booked him into county jail, according to Garcia.
Hanney was transported to a hospital and died of his injuries on July 19, Garcia said.
Police investigators will be meeting with the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office to amend the charges to include murder, Garcia said.
Tran is being held on $275,000 bail and is scheduled for a plea hearing at the Hall of Justice on Aug. 6, according to prosecutors.
Anyone with information on the homicide is asked to call San Jose police Sgt. Pat Guire or Detective Ken Tran at (408) 277-5283.
Those who wish to remain anonymous may call Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers at (408) 947-7867.