Man charged, another in coma after altercation

“It’s Stefan’s battle. He’s fighting for his life is what he’s doing. “He’s in terrible rough shape.” Lyndon Pineau

One man is in custody and another is fighting for his life in a Moncton hospital after an incident outside the Miscouche Legion.

RCMP said Friday that there was a fight between two men in the building’s parking lot, Tuesday, around 1:30 a.m.

Stefan Pineau, 26, of Summerside, received severe head injuries and has since been flown to Moncton for treatment. He was originally taken to Prince County Hospital by ambulance from the scene.

Summerside Police Service officers arrested Brandon Butler, 22, on the same day as the incident. He has been charged with aggravated assault and breach of probation. He is being held in custody until his court appearance later this month.

RCMP Const. Gavin Moore, said the incident is still being investigated, including what may have precipitated the altercation.

Meanwhile, there has been an outpouring of community support.

The Journal Pioneer spoke with Lyndon Pineau, Stefan’s father, Friday morning.

He said his son’s family and some friends are by his side in Moncton City Hospital.

He underwent cranial surgery Wednesday morning as doctors attempt to relieve the pressure on his brain. He is currently in a medically induced coma, and the next 48 hours are key, said Lyndon.

“It’s Stefan’s battle. He’s fighting for his life is what he’s doing,” he said.

“He’s in terrible rough shape.”

The one silver lining for the family has been the tremendous support the community has shown.

“It’s unreal what people are doing for him – he’s a wellliked kid.”

A GoFundMe.com campaign was started Thursday morning to help support the family’s medical bills. Its original goal was $5,000 but it had raised $11,475 by Friday afternoon.

Jeannie Cameron the campaign.

Stefan is like another son to her, she said, as he has been a life-long friend to her two sons.

She also has personal experience as the parent of a child who has suffered a severe brain injury.

“The cost is astronomical … that stress alone … I’ve been there,” said Cameron.

Stefan is also a frequenter of local gyms, one of which is throwing a fundraiser for him.

“Sweating for Stefan,” is scheduled for Iron Haven Gym in Summerside on Oct. 14, 2-4 p.m. started

Stefan’s family and friends are overwhelmed with the support he has received, said Lyndon.

“I big thank you,” he said. “We appreciate it – everybody does.”