Man Charged In South Philly Attack That Caused Brain Damage, Coma

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia District Attorney's Office filed charges against a man accused of attacking another man at a South Philadelphia bar, leaving him with brain damage and in a coma.

The DA's office said Peter J. Ricioppo, 31, aggravated assault, simple assault, conspiracy, and recklessly endangering another person.

Ricioppo is accused of attacking Frank Tarantella at Cookie's Tavern in South Philadelphia at about 11:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 11.

The DA's office alleges Ricioppo and others then continued to attacked Tarantella, causing severe head injuries leading to him being comatose.

The community is rallying behind Tarantella via a GoFundMe campaign.

So far, more than $6,800 of the $10,000 goal has been raised.

See here to contribute to the campaign.

Authorities are asking the public for information that could help them identify the other attackers, either by calling 911 or anonymously through the Philadelphia Police Department hotline (215) 686-8477.