A couple has recounted the harrowing 2am phone call they received, informing them that their teenage son was hospitalized with a fractured skull and suspected bleeding on the brain. Beau Brownbill, an 18-year-old from Woodville South in Adelaide's inner-northwestern suburbs, sustained serious injuries in an alleged assault around 1am on Saturday in the city's nightclub district.
Every parent's worst nightmare
"When we got to the hospital, it was like every parents' worst nightmare," Beau's mother, Megan Brownbill, told 7NEWS. "It was very distressing to see Beau covered in blood and not very responsive." The popular baseball player, who was celebrating a night out with friends after recently turning 18, was allegedly punched in the head during a confrontation on Hindley Street, near the intersection of Angels Lane in the CBD. He fell to the ground unconscious and was rushed to the hospital in a serious condition.
Long-term concerns for recovery
Megan Brownbill expressed deep worry about the potential long-term effects of her son's injuries, including memory issues, cognitive processing problems, and mental health challenges. "It's going to be impacting us and our family for a long time," she said. Beau's father, Tony Brownbill, added that it was heartbreaking to see their son in such a state, especially as he had just begun to enjoy his newfound freedom after finishing school.
Community support pours in
In response to the incident, Beau's baseball club, the Adelaide Angels, posted a message of support on Facebook, stating, "The Angels community is wrapping its arms around Beau Brownbill and the Brownbill family after a serious and terrible incident over the weekend. Beau, we are all thinking of you and hoping for a smooth and speedy recovery." Similarly, his football club, Seaton Ramblers Football Club, offered thoughts and prayers, emphasizing that violence is never the answer and urging people to stay safe and look out for each other while out with friends.
Police investigation and charges
Police have charged a 17-year-old from Whyalla Norrie, located about four hours from Adelaide, with assault causing harm. The teenager has been bailed and is scheduled to appear in the Adelaide Youth Court in April. Investigations into the alleged assault are ongoing, and authorities are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward and contact the police.
