Major Scott Hall said it was not clear what prompted the affray, which occurred outside the Zoo Road VFW hall.
In a statement Hall said around 11 p.m. that evening Deputy Cody Fortier responded to Halifax Regional Medical Center to investigate an assault report.
The deputy learned the victim was outside talking with an individual when he was approached from behind by the suspect.
The victim was struck and knocked to the ground where the assault continued.
Followup investigation led to Fortier filing charges against Robert Taylor Wilson Jr., 44, for assault inflicting serious bodily injury.
Wilson, who was arrested Wednesday, received a $5,000 bond and was given a June 10 court date.
The victim was treated for several broken bones and released.
