Dahal Umesh, a 41-year-old father of two, was fatally beaten outside Topgolf in Nashville, Tennessee after attempting to break up a fight on Saturday night, June 29, 2024.
Umesh, a member of the local Nepali community, was attending a concert hosted by the Nashville Nepalese Association at the venue when an argument escalated. The incident occurred on the lower level of Topgolf, located on Cowan Street, where Umesh was enjoying a performance by the Nepali rock band “Mantra.”
The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (MNPD) reported that the altercation moved to the parking lot, where Umesh tried to calm things down. He was punched, causing him to fall and hit his head on the concrete. While he was on the ground, he was kicked several times. He was transported to a local hospital, where he battled for his life, eventually passing away on Tuesday
Bishal Rai, 26, was identified as the primary suspect and arrested at his home in Antioch, Nashville. He was initially charged with aggravated assault, but following Umesh’s death on Tuesday morning, the charge was upgraded to criminal homicide. Rai is currently being held without bond pending a hearing. He was charged last year with felony aggravated assault-strangulation, but the case was ultimately dismissed, according to court records.
Umesh’s death has left a significant void in the lives of his wife, Damanta Kafley Dahal, and their two young daughters. Friends and family members are in shock over the violence that took the life of a man known for his kindness. “He was always the first to step in and help,” a family friend said. “We are devastated by his loss.”
The concert was intended to be a night of celebration and community bonding. However, the joy of the evening was shattered by the violent altercation that led to Umesh’s death. The MNPD is continuing its investigation, seeking to identify other individuals involved in the assault. “The investigation is ongoing, and we are committed to bringing all those responsible to justice,” said an MNPD spokesperson.
The community is coming together to support Umesh’s family, offering condolences and assistance. A memorial fund has been created to help cover funeral costs and provide ongoing aid to his wife and children.