Two Men Charged in Barton Springs Assault Under Hate Crime Review

Two men have been charged with aggravated assault following a violent incident at Barton Springs that left one victim seriously injured. Authorities confirmed the July 26 attack is being investigated as a potential hate crime.

According to arrest affidavits, 28-year-old Joshua McKeith Bell and 29-year-old Mathew Robert Villanueva face charges after the assault, which began when Bell allegedly made transphobic comments toward a group that included a transgender woman.

Victim Sustains Severe Injuries

The confrontation escalated, leaving the victim unconscious. Officials said he suffered a fractured jaw that required surgery and had to be wired shut for four weeks. The victim also sustained a punctured ear canal.

Witness reports and video evidence indicate that Bell shoved a woman to the ground before the victim stepped in defensively. The footage shows the victim with unclenched fists and making no attempt to strike. Bell then punched the victim twice before Villanueva delivered a blow from behind that knocked him unconscious.

Police Investigation Underway

The incident began at approximately 5:22 p.m. when multiple callers reported a man bleeding from the head after a fight. By the time police arrived, both suspects had left the scene.

While Bell and Villanueva have been charged, they have not yet been arrested. The Austin Police Department’s Hate Crime Review Committee is now examining the case to determine whether hate crime enhancements apply.

Public Asked to Assist Investigation

Authorities are seeking additional information from the public. Anyone with details about the incident is encouraged to contact the Austin Police Department or submit anonymous tips through Capital Area Crime Stoppers at (512) 472-TIPS or online at austincrimestoppers.org.

The case remains under review as police continue to investigate the events surrounding the assault.