Police: Man, 82, dies after severe beating; Suspect charged with murder

An 82-year-old man who was severely beaten March 24 outside of his home in Patterson died Tuesday as a result of his injuries, Police Chief Garrett Grogan said. The deceased victim was identified as Riley Buck.

The suspect accused of attacking Buck, Jarrett Anthony Williams, 41, of Third Street in Patterson, was arrested at 8:10 p.m. Tuesday on a charge of first-degree murder in the case, Grogan said. No bail was set.

Williams was initially arrested March 25 on a charge of second-degree battery on the infirm with medical attention required in connection with beating Buck. Williams severely beat Buck on the night of March 24 in Buck’s front yard on Domino Drive in Patterson, Grogan said. Buck was taken to a hospital following the attack.

A toxicology test done on Williams after his arrest showed that he had PCP in his system, Grogan said. Williams allegedly told police that “God told him to do it” in reference to his attack on Buck, the chief said. But Williams didn’t say anything else to officers in regard to a possible motive for the attack, Grogan said.