A 38-year-old West Frankfort man is in St. Louis University Hospital in an induced coma as the result of what West Frankfort Police Department are calling a heinous crime.
According to police, Josh Marvel was beaten severely Sunday night as he exited his car in the 2000 block of East Elm Street.
William T. VanZandt, 38, of West Frankfort is being held at Franklin County jail on a charge of aggravated battery after being apprehended in Saline County and transferred to Franklin County.
According to police, a resident called 911 and told police that VanZandt struck Marvel as he got out of his vehicle and knocked him to the ground. VanZandt continued to strike Marvel, causing noticeable head trauma and facial injuries, police said.
Police said VanZandt fled the scene before police or ambulance personnel arrived. Marvel was found laying on the driveway of the residence. Marvel was stabilized and taken by ambulance to Herrin hospital and was then flown to St. Louis University Hospital with major head injuries. As of Monday, Marvel was listed in critical condition.
VanZandt was later found in a mobile home in Harrisburg by a West Frankfort officer who made the arrest.
