Unprovoked pipe attack lands transient behind bars

SAN LUIS OBISPO — A local transient allegedly assaulted two men with a metal pipe just after 9 p.m. Monday on the 700 block of Marsh Street, according to San Luis Obispo Police Department officials.

Robert Lee Price, 45, was booked on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon. Bail was set at $25,000.

Assault Victim Donald Regan, 46, a fellow San Luis Obispo transient, was transported to a local hospital where he was treated for a contusion and a significant laceration to the top of his head, police officials said. After receiving medical care, Regan was released from the hospital.

The second victim, Paul Bramon, 30, of Atascadero, received an injury to his right elbow when he came to Regan’s aid. Bramon refused medical attention.

“We cannot find a reason and believe the attack was unprovoked,” said police Capt. Ian Parkinson.

Witnesses of the Dec. 28 attack led police to a home on the 1300 block of Broad Street, where Price was found in the backyard and arrested, police officials said.

Police drew their tasers but did not use them in the arrest, Parkinson said.

Authorities believe Price could be responsible for a similar assault the night before.

“We had a similar unprovoked attack the night before and the description matches Price,” Parkinson said. “We have not confirmed that he was responsible for the prior attack. That case is currently under investigation.”

Anyone with information regarding the recent assaults should call the San Luis Obispo Police Department at (805) 781-7317 or Crime Stopper at (805) 549-STOP.