Attorney: Keith defended himself in Corning attack

NEW LEXINGTON – Brandon I. Keith was defending himself from an attacker during an alleged assault last Thursday that led to a 55-year-old man's death, Keith's attorney argued Tuesday in court.

The pair did not know each other prior to the confrontation, said Attorney Robert Toy, adding it's still unclear what sparked the alleged attack.

Toy said he hopes and expects that video surveillance, as well as witness statements, will exonerate Keith.

Visiting Judge Richard Waller set Keith's bond at $250,000 during a hearing in Perry County Court. Keith is an inmate at the Southeast Ohio Regional Jail in Nelsonville.

He is scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing Thursday morning, where a judge will decide if enough evidence exists to bind over the case to common pleas court. A grand jury could then later indict Keith on formal charges.

Keith is suspected of assaulting a 55-year-old man during an altercation Thursday night at a Corning store, according to the Perry County Sheriff's Office. That case quickly turned into a homicide investigation after Fred Fisher of Corning died Sunday at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center in Columbus from his injuries, according to the Perry County Sheriff's Office.

Keith, 23, was originally arrested on a felonious assault charge Friday at an Athens County residence. He continues to be held on that second-degree felony.

The prosecutor's office may seek amended charges as the investigation continues. Keith has no prior criminal record, Toy said.

Perry County sheriff's deputies responded at 10:44 p.m. Thursday to John's Place at 113 E. Main St. in Corning in reference to an unresponsive man lying in the parking lot. Fisher was flown to the Columbus hospital, where he was initially listed as being in critical condition.

Keith was identified as the suspect, and authorities with the Athens County Sheriff's Office searched 11650 Burr Oak Road in Glouster, where he was taken into custody.

Also assisting with his arrest were the Corning and Crooksville police departments.

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