Richard Green lost his life trying to help a woman during a domestic assault.

The 57-year-old Colwood man was allegedly punched outside of the Country Rose Pub in Colwood, Oct. 8 around 8:30 p.m.

The Good Samaritan was unconscious after the blow and taken to hospital. He underwent emergency surgery on Oct. 9 and was put into an induced coma. He was taken off life support and passed away early Monday morning, Oct. 15.

Highlands resident Greg Brotherston is charged with aggravated assault.

"The current charges remain in effect," said Cpl. Kathy Rochlitz of West Shore RCMP. "The charges he is facing may change."

Brotherston fled the scene of the attack and was arrested the following day without incident.

"In the light of Mr. Green's tragic passing it is not the appropriate time to talk about my client," said Richard Neary, Brotherston's lawyer. "I know the family very well ... the family feels great sorrow.

They (express their) deepest condolences to Mr. Green's family and friends.

As for Brotherston's charges Neary said "It's too early ... all of the Brotherston's thoughts are with Mr. Green's family. In the coming days Mr. Green's family should be able to mourn the loss."

Brotherston remains in custody and appeared in court Oct. 15. Judge Josiah Wood placed two no-contact orders on Brotherston, one for a female and one for a male. It is unknown at this time what the connection is between the charges and the two individuals.

"This means no contact whatsoever, no text messages, cell phones, do you understand?" asked Wood.

"Yes I do," replied Brotherston sitting in the courtroom prisoner box wearing a green T-shirt with slight stubble on his face.

Brotherston's next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 29 via video.

The Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crimes Unit is now leading the investigation.

charla@goldstreamgazette.com