Florida police arrested an amateur MMA fighter for manslaughter following the death of a U.S. Airman during a brawl in a bar’s parking lot.
Investigators claim that the fight started Sunday at the Coyote Ugly Saloon in Panama City Beach, and then moved to the parking lot.
According to the Panama City Beach Police Department, Dayvon Larry, 31, likely didn’t participate in the brawl. However, he may have known someone who did.
Larry defended his friend who was being beaten outside and was then punched in the back of his head.
Larry died later after being taken to the hospital by police who responded to his call about the fight around 11 p.m.
Police were able to identify Ross Johnson from video surveillance footage. Investigators stated that Johnson initially told them contradictory stories about the altercation, but eventually admitted to it. They also found evidence on Johnson’s Snapchat account, which allegedly indicated that he had admitted to Larry’s death.
Larry died from blunt force trauma, according to a medical examiner.
Johnson, a 23-year-old amateur mixed martial artist fighter from Carterville (Illinois), is Johnson. In his three-year MMA career, Johnson had fought seven bouts and won five.
Larry was a Security Forces Airman in the 325th Security Forces Squadron of Tyndall Air Force Base. Tyndall officials confirmed Larry’s death and described it as a “devastating” loss in a statement.
They added that they were sending their thoughts and prayers to the family, friends, and fellow airmen.
Johnson was charged with manslaughter. He was held on $250,000 bail. According to Panama City Beach Police, their investigation is ongoing and could lead to additional charges.
Here’s a local report on the incident
