Sparks resident Michael Hess, 65, has died from his injuries after a brutal attack with a rock on November 3rd when he was volunteering at the Veterans Memorial Plaza at the Sparks Marina, helping with cleaning efforts there.
"We have experienced the profound loss of a truly remarkable individual within our northern Nevada community," the Nevada Veterans Memorial Plaza organization said in a statement announcing his death.
“The plaza is built and cared for by volunteers like Michael — people who give their time out of pure respect and love for those who served,”
34-year-old Michael Paulsen of Oregon has been arrested facing multiple charges after witnesses called in police saying a younger man was beating an older man with a rock.
This photo is from a gofundme which had been started for Hess when he was still alive.
It can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-michael-hesss-critical-recovery
On Friday, Washoe County District Attorney Chris Hicks said a charge of Murder with the Use of a Deadly Weapon Committed Against an Elderly Person had been filed against Paulsen.
“My office is committed to seeking justice for Mr. Hess and to holding the defendant fully accountable under the law,” said DA Hicks in a press release. “We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Hess’s family and loved ones during this difficult time, and we will continue to work closely with the Sparks Police Department to ensure this case is handled with the care and diligence it deserves.”
The statement said surveillance video from the scene showed Paulsen allegedly attacking Hess by kicking him and striking him in the head with a rock repeatedly.