‘He only had good in his heart,” Family of man fatally assaulted at J.C. Beemer park speaks out

The family of Antonio Beltrano, 45, who was fatally assaulted at J.C. Beemer Park in Hamilton last week spoke about their loss on Tuesday.

Beltrano was assaulted at J.C. Beemer Park on Victoria Avenue North last Thursday and later died in hospital.

They say Beltrano was an amazing person with a wide-reaching family and a big heart. Beltrano’s niece, Nadia Francella, says he was fun-loving and a favourite member of their big family.

READ MORE: Man, 45, dies of injuries after J.C. Beemer Park assault in Hamilton

“He was an amazing person. He only had good in his heart. He wanted the best for others and he put his family before anything else…” Franchella said.

Franchella says she’ll be saving a place at the family table for her uncle Tony, who used to sit beside her at family dinners.

Craig Brooks, 37, of Hamilton is charged with second-degree murder in Beltrano’s death.

Hamilton police say neither of the men lived in the encampment in the park.

READ MORE: Hamilton police seek man in 2nd assault at J.C. Beemer Park in 3 days