News-Chronicle
A 32-year-old De Pere man found unconscious at the scene of a bar brawl in Ledgeview died from asphyxia, or lack of oxygen to the brain, an autopsy report stated Saturday.
Although officials did not speculate how Scott Verhaagh might have received his injuries, a news release from the Brown County Medical Examiner's Office said asphyxia can occur if a slight amount of pressure is placed on the jugular veins.
Capt. John Gossage of the Brown County Sheriff's Department said the autopsy report will be reviewed by the district attorney's office Monday. He would not say whether officers anticipate making any arrests in the death.
When rescue workers arrived at the Korner Bar, 4344 Lime Kiln Road, at about 1:30 a.m. Thursday, they found Verhaagh unconscious and pulseless, according to the news release. By the time paramedics revived Verhaagh, fatal brain damaged had occurred.
Verhaagh died late Thursday night at St. Vincent Hospital.
Officers said Verhaagh was described by patrons as belligerent and unruly, and was said to have thrown the first punch. A 26-year-old man who tried to end the fight by restraining Verhaagh called 9-1-1 for help, officers said.