Attempted murder charges may be pursued
A Bellefontaine area man is facing felonious assault and possibly more serious charges after severely injuring and rendering his father unconscious in a Sunday evening, May 11 domestic dispute.
William “Tanner” LeVan, 22, was arrested around 8 p.m. following the incident at his home, deputies of the Logan County Sheriff’s Office report.
Upon arrival at the home, deputies found LeVan’s father lying face down on the ground, not moving with a bloodied face. The victim had reportedly been unconscious for a time and was unable to move his legs.
The victim had to be transported by medical helicopter to an area trauma center as a result of his injuries, deputies said.
Deputies report the dispute and eventual assault began after LeVan’s live-in fiancee attempted to take their infant child from the home. She was concerned the suspect, who had been watching the child while she was out, was intoxicated.
The fiancee contacted the suspect’s parents to help mediate the dispute.
Shortly after LeVan’s father arrived at the home, a physical altercation reportedly began between the two after LeVan handed the infant to his fiancee.
LeVan kicked his father while the elder man was lying face down, defenseless on the ground, according to witness statements.
LeVan, who deputies described as apathetic, reportedly admitted to the assault saying he gave his father a “good left hook,” and “I (expletive) knocked him out.” Deputies also noted a smell of alcoholic beverage on his breath while speaking to him.
The suspect told deputies he believed he was defending himself, his baby and his property.
LeVan was also charged with domestic violence. Additionally, because of the severity of the victim’s injuries, deputies are seeking a determination on whether attempted murder and child endangerment charges are warranted.
While in a sheriff vehicle, the arrestee made calls to several sheriff’s office employees telling them in a reportedly light-hearted manner he went too far and knocked the victim unconscious.
Home security footage and other evidence was collected at the scene.
LeVan was lodged in the Logan County Jail.
Investigation continues.
