MANATEE COUNTY — A 51-year-old man has been charged with second-degree murder after his 85-year-old father died from injuries sustained during an altercation at a home in south Manatee County.
According to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a residence in the 500 block of Magellan Drive at approximately 10 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2026, following a reported fight between 85-year-old Richard Cantwell and his son, 51-year-old Kieran Cantwell.
Investigators say Kieran punched his father once in the face during the altercation, causing Richard to fall backward and strike his head on the tile floor.
Richard was transported to a local hospital for treatment of his injuries.
Kieran was arrested at the scene and initially charged with felony battery. He was booked into the Manatee County Jail, where he has remained on a $75,000 bond.
Richard died from his injuries on Monday, August 24.
Following further investigation and consultation with the State Attorney’s Office, Kieran was charged on Friday, August 28, with second-degree murder in connection with his father’s death.
Kieran remains in the Manatee County Jail.
