Police now unsure if South Fayette man with head injuries was beaten

Detectives are trying to determine whether a man initially reported as “severely beaten” in South Fayette was indeed the victim of a crime.

Police and paramedics responded Sunday around 7:29 a.m. to the 300 block of Ridge Point Circle for a report of a man with severe head injuries who “appeared to be severely beaten,” according to Allegheny County police.

But on Monday, county homicide Lt. Venerando Costa said it was “not conclusive” the 58-year-old man was beaten.

That information came from first responders at the scene, Lt. Costa said.

After investigating, county homicide detectives found the man had been at a local bar and went home in a ride-share vehicle, arriving at his apartment building around 1:28 a.m.

“Video surveillance shows the man exiting the vehicle and the vehicle driving away,” county police said.

“The man is seen walking towards his apartment building out of camera view. Detectives were advised by medical personnel that the man had a depressed skull fracture on the rear of his head. Currently detectives are attempting to determine the origin of the head injuries.”

A building resident called 911 later Sunday morning.

The man was taken to the hospital in critical condition.

“Early on in the investigation, it appeared to be a possible assault,” South Fayette police Chief John Phoennik said Monday. “As the investigation unfolded, it appears it may not have been an assault.”

Anyone with information can call the Allegheny County Police Tipline at 1833-ALL-TIPS (1-833-2558477).