American Assaulted Italian in Patong, Say Police
By Phuketwan Reporter
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
AN AMERICAN savagely assaulted an Italian in Soi Bangla on Monday night after a disagreement, police say.
The two had been drinking in the same bar on Soi Bangla and both took a liking to one of the waitresses.
The American, a younger man, was solidly built and possibly favored his chances of winning the young lady's attention.
The Italian was an older man, aged 54.
However, according to police who interviewed witnesses in the bar, the American was ''impolite'' and used bad language.
The waitress decided to ignore him and chatted instead with the Italian, police were told.
The American left the bar.
A little later, about 9.20pm, the Italian left the bar. As he walked out, the American was waiting, barechested and apparently ready to fight.
Police Lieutenant Surasak Jaidee said the American beat up the Italian, using a knuckleduster on one fist.
By the time officers arrived at the scene, the American was still beating the Italian, he added.
An ambulance arrived and paramedics treated the Italian, then took him to Bangkok Hospital Phuket, where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit.
He was still in hospital today after having more than 20 stitches to wounds on his face.
Police Lieutenant Surasak named the men as Corey Dalee Daniel and Enrico Zarantonello.
The American has been charged with assault with a weapon.
He is being held and police will interview Mr Zarantonello when he is able before deciding whether to pursue charges.