Joplin man arrested, victim in critical condition after fall from second story balcony

(From the Joplin Police Department)

On 10-17-16 at 9:43 PM hours JPD Officers were dispatched to 1715 S. Rex Ave. Building D, in reference to a request from the Joplin Fire Department.

Police were advised that the Joplin Fire Department was at this location in reference to a medical call and needed immediate assistance due to an unruly crowd.

Officers determined that there had been a physical disturbance wherein the victim, Birchie Hodge, Joplin, sustained life-threatening, physical injuries resultant from a fall from a second story balcony.

Hodge remains in critical condition at Freeman Hospital.

Matthew R. Dierling, 34, Joplin has been arrested for Assault 2nd Degree. Charges have been forwarded to the Jasper County Prosecutor’s Office.