Fight in Truckee ends in death of Chico man

A Chico man who was assaulted on the streets of Truckee last month died July 3 at Renown Medical Center in Reno.

Jesse Hill, 39, had been in intensive care with serious head injuries since June 18.

Bryan Luke Sperlin, 24, of Truckee was originally booked on two felony assault charges. Police believe there are a variety of charges that could apply depending on the completed investigation.

“We will continue to collaborate with the District Attorney’s Office and communicate with the victim’s family to find the most appropriate conclusion. Our focus at this point is to continue with a comprehensive and timely investigation that discloses the factual truths about the case,” Truckee police Capt. Rob Leftwich said in a press release.

The official cause of his death will be determined by the Washoe County Medical Examiner’s office after a review of medical documents and an autopsy that is scheduled in the coming days.

Hill was found unconscious on the sidewalk in front of the Pastime Club on June 18 at 11:05pm. Truckee police officers said Hill and Sperlin began arguing earlier in the evening at the Tourist Club bar. Hill left the Tourist Club and was later standing in front of the Pastime Club. As Sperlin was entering the Pastime Club he and Hill began a second argument that led to the physical altercation, officers said.

— Lake Tahoe News staff report