By Kristina Davis, Tribune
A 20-year-old man died after he was beaten early Saturday at a Mesa house party, police said. Omar Phililpando of Mesa died at a hospital after police received reports at 1 a.m. that a man was unconscious from a fight, said Mesa detective Tim Gaffney.
Four Mesa teenagers were arrested on suspicion of aggravated assault:
Nafetalai Ika, 19;
Kuea Foleti, 18;
Osaiasi Foleti, 19;
and a 14-year-old boy.
Investigators are waiting for the medical examiner to determine the cause of death before considering additional charges.
Police said several of the 18-to 20-year-olds at the party, at 1007 W. Portobello Ave., were drinking, including the victim.
Partygoers told police that Phililpando had been in a fight with another person earlier that night.
He then got into an argument with several people, and the fatal fight ensued.
When officers arrived on the scene, several people scattered from the area. Investigators said they were searching for other people at the party to interview.
Contact Kristina Davis by email
By Alma via Kristina Davis
