Bellingham man assaulted outside of Lighthouse Mission dies from injuries

BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A 52-year-old man succumbed to injuries sustained in a recent assault outside the Lighthouse Mission in Bellingham.

Officials with the Bellingham Police Department said William Davis was punched in the face by 47-year-old Clint R. Bowen on Feb. 25.

"Davis fell to the ground hitting his head, critically injured. (On Tuesday), Davis died from the injuries he sustained," Public Information Officer Claudia Murphy said in a news release.

When officers responded to the Lighthouse Mission Drop-In-Center on Feb. 25, they found Davis lying unconscious. A citizen was providing cardiopulmonary resuscitation efforts.

Medics with the Bellingham Fire Department then took over emergency lifesaving measures.

"Patrol officers and detectives investigated the scene, spoke to witnesses and reviewed surveillance footage and determined Bowen made threats to 'head-butt' others in the area prior to the assault on Davis," Murphy said.

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According to police, a discussion on Davis’ ability to protect himself ensued and Bowen punched Davis in the face. Davis then fell to the ground and was unresponsive, officials said.

Davis was transported to the hospital, where he remained until he died on Tuesday.

“This is such a tragic incident for everyone,” Bellingham police Chief David Doll said. “I am so grateful for the citizen, our police officers and medical personnel who did everything they could to help Mr. Davis.”

Bowen was arrested on Feb. 25 on susicion of second-degree assault and was booked into the Whatcom County Jail.

Officials said the Whatcom County Prosecutor’s Office was notified of Davis’ death on Tuesday and will review the case for amendment of charges.

Cox Media Group