Fatal assault appears to have been in parking lot; CT scan showed brain bleed

The attack appears to have occurred in Frisbie's emergency parking lot. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - The fatal blow that led to the death of a Frisbie Memorial Hospital security officer apparently occurred in the hospital's emergency parking lot, according to a police affidavit filed in connection with the assault.

Richard Semo, 64, of Farmington, sustained the fatal injury around 3:20 a.m. when Tyler Thurston, 29, is alleged to have punched him in the face, causing him to hit his head on the pavement, according to the affidavit filed on Dec. 14, a day after the attack.

Semo died Friday at Portsmouth Regional Hospital where he was transported after the assault.

An autopsy to determine the exact cause of death was scheduled for Sunday, but its results have not been released. A CT scan taken the night of the incident indicated a brain bleed, the affidavit states.

Semo was found unresponsive following the attack.

Meanwhile, friends and colleagues from Frisbie are still in shock over what happened.

"Our hearts are broken over the loss of Rick Semo, our beloved Frisbie Memorial Hospital colleague since 2019," the hospital said in a statement." It is difficult to put into words what Rick means to our hospital and the colleagues he worked beside. His impact to those he worked with will be everlasting due to his incredible work ethic ensuring the safety of our Frisbie family. He was much more than a security officer as he was supportive beyond security, and would make sure staff knew that he would help support them in any way."

The statement added that Semo was dedicated to the safety of staff and patients and, "brought stability to the most difficult situations and was willing to help beyond his security responsibilities."

As of today Thurston has still been charged only with second degree assault, but he continues to be held without bail at Strafford County Jail, police said today.

Once the Strafford County Attorneys Office concludes its investigation and receives cause and manner of death from the state Medical Examiners Office, it is likely the charges could be upgraded.

Frisbie also offered its condolences to Semo's family and friends adding, "We are reminded of the courage he - and his fellow security officers - exhibit every day to keep our patients and colleagues safe."

The circumstances surrounding the incident are still being investigated. Police are asking that anyone in the area who may have witnessed the incident contact them at 603-330-7128. Tipsters can also provide information and remain anonymous by calling the Rochester Crime Line at 603-335-6500 or Text to: CRIMES (274637) Body of Text: TEXT4CASH + your tip. Cash rewards are offered for information that leads to an arrest.