NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A 41-year-old Nepali man, Umesh Dahal, died after being beaten while trying to defuse a fight outside the Topgolf facility in East Nashville. He succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday morning, leaving the local community in shock.
Key Details
- Umesh Dahal was attacked while trying to stop an argument at a concert.
- He was punched, causing him to fall and hit his head, then kicked while on the ground.
- Bishal Rai, 26, has been arrested and charged with aggravated assault, which will be upgraded to criminal homicide.
On Saturday night, Umesh Dahal was attending a concert at Topgolf's lower level with members of Nashville’s Nepali community. During the event, an argument broke out and moved outside to the parking lot. Dahal attempted to calm the situation but was punched, causing him to fall and hit his head on the concrete. While on the ground, he was kicked in the head.
Police arrested Bishal Rai on Monday evening at his home in Antioch. Initially charged with aggravated assault, Rai's charges are expected to be upgraded to criminal homicide following Dahal’s death on Tuesday morning. Authorities are also investigating the involvement of other individuals in the incident.
The concert, organized by the Nashville Nepalese Association, featured the Nepali rock band "Mantra" and was held at The Cowan, a live performance venue at Topgolf.
"The charge will be upgraded to criminal homicide as the result of Dahal’s death," stated the Metropolitan Nashville Police.
The death of Umesh Dahal has deeply impacted the Nepali and South Asian communities in the US. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a peacemaker and father of two. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward to ensure justice is served.