Their investigation revealed a number of bar patrons walked outside and began arguing. The victim was watching the arguing when Joshua Shields allegedly blindsided and struck him with a closed fist to the head. The punch knocked the victim unconscious, and he fell to the sidewalk, striking his head on the concrete.
Ventura police arrived on the scene less than a minute later. Investigators say the battery appears to be a random act of violence with no obvious motive.
The victim was treated at the scene, but he refused to be taken to the hospital.
Shields was booked on felony battery causing serious injury.
