James Allen charged with murder for killing John Roughton after a fight over a beer
Authorities say a Florida man punched in the face during an argument over beer has died after the fight outside a Florida restaurant.
The Daytona Beach News-Journal detailed the story, James R. Allen, 34, now faces a second-degree murder charge stemming from the incident Oct. 20 in the parking lot of a Popeye’s chicken outlet.
A police report says Allen punched John Roughton, 55, in the face, causing him to fall flat on his back. Roughton’s head bounced off the pavement and he was knocked unconscious.
Police confirmed that Roughton underwent surgery, but his family elected to have him taken off life support and he died Tuesday at Halifax Health Medical Center.
Both men’s addresses were listed as a nearby homeless assistance center.
Allen remains in jail and records don’t list a lawyer. He was initially charged with aggravated battery.
When he was detained by police, Allen admitted that he had struck Roughton in the face over the alcoholic beverage.
Allen said he also witnessed Roughton’s head hit the pavement and begin bleeding, but walked away from the scene.
James R Allen
