David Steven Bell, a 51-year-old man, was booked in Buncombe County Jail over the weekend after a shocking moment was captured on video. Bell can be seen arguing with a group of girls in front of the Asheville Mall in North Carolina.
As the argument escalated, one of the young girls approached Bell, who cold-clocked the 11-year-old in the face and sent her falling to the ground unconscious.
Bell was arrested and charged with assault on a female under the age of 12 and two counts of assault, according to the Daily Mail.
Jail records show that Bell, who is listed at 6-foot-5, 250 pounds, was released from jail around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday.
Asheville Police Department
“We are aware of the videos circulating on social media. ‘The @AshevillePolice responded immediately and the situation was diffused. An arrest has been made,” the Asheville Mall said in a statement on social media. “Please contact the Asheville Police Department with further questions.”
The victim in the incident reportedly declined medical treatment. Police would not reveal the nature of any potential injuries, however.
Two other girls, both 13, also claim that Bell shoved them during the incident. Bell is due in court on February 5.
You can check out video of the incident below.
WARNING: Video contains graphic content that some viewers may find troubling.
According to at least one eye witness, Bell was attempting to break up a fight between two young girls when he got involved in the altercation. After the incident failed to de-escalate, he shoved a young girl in the chest. When the girl came back towards Bell, he threw the vicious punch to her face that knocked her unconscious.
Bell was arrested by an off-duty police officer.
Regardless of how Bell became involved in the altercation, there is never an excuse for a grown man to strike a young girl.