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Amanda Butterfield ReportingA Utah airman was almost beaten to death at Hill Air Force Base. The investigation isn't pointing at a fellow airman, but to a guest of an airman who was on base for a party.
The victim is at McKay Dee Hospital in critical, but stable condition. The beating happened as the airman was leaving a party. Master Sgt. Tyrone Reynolds, husband, and father of three is well respected at Hill Air Force Base.
Colonel Linda Medler, Hill Air Force Base: "He brings a great wealth of experience to us, a very well respected airman."
He was a hard worker in the Inspector General Shop, handling complaints received on the base. To loosen up this past weekend, he went to a party on base at Club Hill.
Colonel Linda Medler, Hill Air Force Base: "We hold late nighters as we call them. Every time there's a holiday on a Monday, we have a late nighter Sunday night here."
Alcohol is always available.
Colonel Linda Medler, Hill Air Force Base: "We did have a DJ; on the late nighters we have dancing, it's a club like atmosphere."
Civilians are allowed as guests of airmen. It was someone's guest who investigators believe was involved in beating Reynolds as he was leaving the club early Monday morning.
One man, Keith Brian Smith, has been charged in the case in a Davis County Court, but only with obstruction of justice, a felony. At least one active duty airman has been questioned about the beating, but is back with his unit. The military won't say much else about suspects or a motive.
Colonel Linda Medler, Hill Air Force Base: "I can't say anything to compromise that investigation."
They won't comment on the injuries Reynolds received either, only that they hope he's back to work soon.
Colonel Linda Medler, Hill Air Force Base: "Our condolences go out to the family and we pray for a speedy recovery."
The military says they don't foresee changing any rules about civilians being allowed on base after this incident. No word on when Reynolds will be out of the hospital.
