Man Killed Brother During Argument: Long Beach Police

LONG BEACH, CA — A 56-year-old man suspected of killing his brother during an argument that led to a physical assault has been taken into custody, police announced Wednesday.

Officers were notified around 6 p.m. Sunday of an unidentified patient at a hospital who sustained critical trauma and appeared to be a victim of assault, according to the Long Beach Police Department. That person died Tuesday and was identified by police as Mark Johnson, 56, of Long Beach.

Police said Johnson was assaulted during an argument by his homeless brother, 56-year-old Marcellus Johnson, in the 2500 block of Delta Avenue. He was arrested Monday and was initially booked on suspicion of attempted murder, with bail set at $1 million. With the victim's death, he could potentially face a more serious murder charge.

It was unclear what prompted the dispute between the brothers.

Anyone with information regarding the fatal assault was urged to contact homicide detectives Oscar Valenzuela and Jesus Espinoza at 562-570- 7244. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800- 222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.

City News Service