Vigil held for Puyallup man punched into coma

TACOMA, Wash. — Many gathered for a vigil in front of a Tacoma hospital Saturday evening for the Puyallup man who was punched into a coma.

Friends and family of 21-year-old James Foster were in attendance in front of Tacoma General Hospital, where he is currently on life support with severe head injuries.

Pierce County Prosecutors said Foster was punched by 25-year-old Daman Lehman outside of a Puyallup bar the night of April 27 after Foster complemented the rims of Lehman’s Lexus.

According to police, Lehman punched Foster twice. The second hit made Foster fall back and crash into the pavement.

Among those who attended the vigil were Foster’s mom, sister, girlfriend and dad. They wore "Team James" shirts that they had printed in support of him.

KIRO 7 Eyewitness News Reporter Alison Grande spoke with James Foster’s sister, Aubrey Foster, and she said that she missed her brother.

“I hope he gets better and he comes home soon,” said Aubrey Foster. “He helps me with my homework and I miss seeing him.”

Lehman was charged with assault Thursday, but pleaded not guilty and was out on bail.

One of James Foster’s best friends, Adrienne Kunecke, told KIRO 7 that she was upset about Lehman.

“I don’t see why somebody like him, should be allowed to even have bail. I mean, he could have killed my best friend, he could be dead right now.” Kunecke said.

On Saturday at 11:40 p.m., KIRO 7 learned that Foster opened his eyes and squeezed his girlfriend’s hand.

KIRO