Beating at Hastings military home

St. Paul, Minn. — A severe beating at the military veterans home in Hastings has left one resident near death and another in the Dakota County jail.

Prosecutors say 44-year-old Randy Sears repeatedly stomped on the victim's head during an argument at the state-run home where both men live.

Dakota County Attorney, James Backstrom, says Sears is charged with first-degree assault.

"We are continuing to look at this case. These charges may be upgraded, given the serious nature of this attack and the victim is clinging to life. We're obviously praying for his successful recovery, but if not, we're certainly going to be prepared to increase this to a murder charge," Backstrom said.

Authorities say Sears approached an officer shortly after the beating and confessed. They have identified the 54-year-old victim only as R.J.

They say he has undergone surgery to relieve pressure on the brain and is in extremely critical condition. He has multiple facial and skull fractures and bleeding throughout the brain.

The man is under care at an undisclosed hospital.