TEMPE, Ariz. — Authorities are investigating a brutal assault involving multiple attackers that left one individual hospitalized with serious injuries near the Arizona State University campus. The incident occurred on Sept. 28 and unfolded initially in a dorm room, according to court documents.
The altercation began when the victim, who was in Hassayampa Academic Village with a friend, was confronted by an unfamiliar group of men. A physical encounter was reportedly sparked when one of the suspects made contact with the victim, leading to a heated exchange of words before the group departed the dorm.
Surveillance footage later captured what transpired next. The victim, upon leaving the dorm, was approached by five to six males who crossed the street to confront him. The video shows one suspect throwing the first punch, leading to a violent struggle as the victim attempted to defend himself. As the confrontation escalated, more attackers joined in, delivering a barrage of punches and kicks while the victim was held on the ground.
Witnesses eventually intervened, and the attack ceased. The victim was subsequently transported to a local hospital and admitted to the intensive care unit. He suffered a broken nose, head injuries, and significant bruising to his abdomen and face.
Four individuals have been arrested in connection with the assault. Among them are a juvenile and three young adults: 19-year-old Jayden Malik Smith, 18-year-old Donnell Young, and 18-year-old Justin Michael Otis. Authorities noted that none of the suspects are students at ASU.
The assailants face charges of aggravated assault, with prosecutors seeking to add “swarming” charges under a new law known as Preston’s Law. This legislation addresses instances where three or more individuals attack a single victim, and it was enacted following the tragic death of Preston Lord, who died in a similar incident two years ago.
While the initial paperwork filed by the Arizona State University Police Department did not reflect the swarming charges, a prosecutor explained that the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office booking system needs to be updated to incorporate the new law.
In a related development, Justin Otis, one of the alleged assailants, is the son of a Maricopa County judge, prompting the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office to recuse itself from the case. The matter has been referred to the Coconino County Attorney’s Office for further action.
The three adult suspects were granted $10,000 secured appearance bonds during their initial court appearances. The investigation remains ongoing as ASU law enforcement delves deeper into the circumstances surrounding the assault.