(Walhalla, SC). Joshua Michael Fulbright pled guilty today in Oconee General Sessions Court to Voluntary Manslaughter for the death of Richard Marszalek in December of 2013. The Honorable Lee Alford sentenced Fulbright to 22 years.
Richard Marszalek was first reported missing on January 11, 2014. On January 17th, acting upon their investigation and tips, Oconee County Sheriff’s Office searched the rubble of a burned home in Seneca, SC and found the body of Mr. Marszalek wrapped in a blanket under the home. Post-mortem examination determined the cause of death to be cerebral edema and brain stem herniation due to blunt force trauma to the head.
Further investigation revealed that the victim was an acquaintance of Fulbright with a history of ill will between them. On December 27th Marszalek and Fulbright had an argument that resulted in a fist fight. Later in the day Fulbright came to the residence where the victim was staying and further argument ensued. Fulbright, along with 2 others, fought with Mr. Marszalek. Witness statements indicate Fulbright inflicted the fatal blows to the victim. Mr. Marszalek’s body was subsequently wrapped in a blanket and placed under the home.
“Joshua Fulbright has a history of drug use and violent behavior,” said Solicitor Chrissy Adams. “Given the facts of this case, we have had lengthy discussions with the victim’s family about how to best ensure they see justice is served and believe that today’s plea and subsequent sentence does just that while protecting our community from further violence by the defendant.”