Charge upgraded to manslaughter after fatal Jackson Square assault

A Hamilton man is now facing a manslaughter charge after another man, seriously injured in an alleged assault Tuesday at Jackson Square, died in hospital.

Hamilton police say 67-year-old Jerzy Nataluk was unexpectedly punched by 48-year-old Gerald Deschamps, who is known to police. Investigators say Deschamps fled the scene.

Officers were then called around 4 p.m. after security guards found Nataluk unconscious with head injuries. Paramedics rushed him to hospital, where he was intubated in critical condition.

Investigators later located Deschamps nearby and arrested him. He was initially charged with aggravated assault and eight counts of failing to comply with probation.

In an update Friday, police say Deschamps’ charge was upgraded to manslaughter after Nataluk died of his injuries Wednesday.

Anyone with further information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Staff Sgt. John Obrovac of the homicide unit at 905-546-2458.

To provide information anonymously, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online.

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