Alleged bash victim dies
BREAKING NEWS: A 35-year-old man on life support at Cairns Base Hospital after allegedly being bashed by two brothers at a Bentley Park club has died after his family made the heart-breaking decision to turn the system off overnight.
Bradley Michael Jackson and Daniel Paul Jackson, 25 and 23, were yesterday granted bail on charges of grievous bodily harm after an alleged brawl at Cutters Social Club in Bentley Park on Saturday night.
It is understood police are reviewing their investigation to determine whether charges will be upgraded.
Police prosecutor Sgt Mark White told the court yesterday that at the close of the evening on Saturday, Bradley Jackson allegedly became involved in a scuffle, and the 35-year-old man had been knocked to the floor.
Sgt White said when the man began to get up, Daniel Jackson allegedly punched him in the head and the man fell and hit his head on a bar stool.
He said both defendants declined to be formally interviewed by police and bail was opposed because of the seriousness of the offence.
The Jacksons' solicitors, Philip Bovey and Stephen O'Reilly, said the brothers moved to Cairns in 2002, with Bradley now engaged to be married, and Daniel a recently qualified cabinet maker.
"With regard to my client (Bradley Jackson), this is a charge that will be vigorously defended," Mr Bovey said.
He said the complainant and the brothers appeared to be part of a "broader social group" who were together at the Fretwell Park social club.
Mr O'Reilly said both men had considerable family support and were not a flight risk.
Magistrate Spencer said it was quite clear both defendants lived locally and had strong ties to the area.
He saw no reason to refuse bail.
The matter will next be mentioned on September 29, but the defendants are not required to appear.
See tomorrow's The Cairns Post for an exclusive interview with the family of the alleged victim.
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Accused: Daniel Paul Jackson, 23, and Bradley Michael Jackson, 25, leave Cairns court.
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