Submitted photo of Colton Gleason
ST. CLOUD, Minn. - A St. Cloud teen is being held without bail after making his first appearance in the beating death of a Twin Cities man Friday.
The 17-year-old stands charged with second degree unintentional murder, first degree manslaughter, and first degree assault in the death of 20-year-old Colton Gleason.
Gleason was visiting friends in St. Cloud, and was walking down an alley late Thursday with two other people when a car pulled up with several people inside. One of them jumped out and punched Colton once, causing him to fall to the ground and hit his head.
Gleason died from his injuries Friday.
Tips led to the arrest of the 17-year-old, a young man who prosecutors say has an extensive record. He was described in court Tuesday as "a danger to the public."
Those prosecuting the case also say witnesses and others involved in the case have been receiving anonymous threats.
His defense attorney maintains that the young man is innocent, and has no idea who is responsible for Gleason's death.
The suspect made his first appearance as a juvenile, but authorities will likely move to have him tried as an adult. A hearing for that matter is scheduled for October 30.
A request for bail was denied, meaning that the suspect will remain in jail for the time being. Gleason's parents were in the courtroom for the proceedings, and told KARE 11 it is the beginning of "a long road" on the quest for justice.
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