Coast man charged with attempted murder after ‘unprovoked attack,’ sheriff says

A 21-year-old from Vancleave was arrested and charged with attempted murder after an “unprovoked attack” Monday night that seriously injured a victim in Jackson County, Sheriff John Ledbetter said.

Jackson County sheriff’s deputies responded at 10:30 p.m. Monday to a home in the St. Andrews community and found a 39-year-old victim unconscious in the backyard, Ledbetter said in a news release.

Witnesses told investigators that Austin Manry, who is homeless, assaulted the victim, according to the sheriff’s office.

Manry tried to drive off but crashed a car and was injured, Ledbetter said. Authorities treated his injuries and booked him into the Jackson County jail. The victim was taken by helicopter to USA Medical Center in Mobile.

Manry faces charges of attempted murder, resisting arrest and simple assault on law enforcement officer. He is held without bond pending a court hearing.

This is a developing story and may be updated.