2 charged after Northwest Missouri State University student dies - KCTV5

A Northwest Missouri State University student died after an assault just off campus early Friday.

Tomarken Smith, 21, was pronounced dead at 2:21 a.m. at St. Francis Hospital and Health Services. He died from his injuries, according to the Maryville Public Safety Department.

Smith was from the St. Louis area. He was a senior and was studying pre-med with a minor in coaching. He worked as a personal fitness trainer.

Officials confirm that two are in custody in connection with Smith's death. Charged with second-degree murder and assault are Kevin Dell Mooney, 31, of Bethany, and Tony M. Overlin, 23, of Bethany.

The assault occurred about 1:20 a.m., near the corner of Fourth and Market streets, police said. Molly's Bar is at 309 N. Market St.

Smith had been there dancing and having fun with a group of friends when the two suspects offended some female friends, police said.

"He intervened on their behalf, which is not uncommon thing for a bar frequented by young people," Maryville Police Chief Keith Wood said.

Police kicked Mooney and Overlin out of the bar because of the initial altercation with Smith and the woman. When the bar closed 20 minutes later, Smith left. And the two men were waiting for him, according to court documents.

According to court documents, the two men punched Smith, knocking him to the sidewalk. He lost consciousness and then died.

"The assault itself was brief and severe," Wood said. "It did result in a fatal injury. We don't know if it was by his hitting head on pavement or what it was."

A sergeant observed two white men running from Smith's body after he fell to the ground. The sergeant recognized the two men as having been involved in an alteration with Smith inside Molly's Bar around 1:05 a.m. before Smith left the bar.

The two men were immediately taken into custody. Witnesses helped lead to the quick arrests.

Counseling services are available for university students. The services can be obtained by calling 660-562-1348.

Students, staff, faculty and friends gathered at the Student Union to remember Smith's life.

"The stories have been unbelievable about his energy, his impact, his zest for life and helping others," Northwest Missouri State University president John Jasinski said. "It was heartwarming. It was gut wrenching and impactful."

Smith was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. The board has set up a fund to help Smith's family.

Donations may be made to Tomarken Smith Memorial Fund

Care of Citizens Bank and Trust

105 N. Main St., Maryville, MO 64468.

Cards and notes of sympathy may be taken to the university's College of Campus Activities, J.W. Jones Student Union, second floor, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

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