As we previously reported, YouTube skater Gabriel R. Schuch is facing a serious court case after an incident on a train that left another man with severe head injuries, including a fractured skull and brain bleeding that led to intensive care treatment.
READ MORE: YouTube Skater Gabriel Schuch Arrested After Alleged Skateboard Attack, Fracturing Victim’s Skull
The situation has been discussed in court where both the prosecution and the defense shared very different accounts of what happened that night.
According to the prosecutor, the two men had no contact after an earlier alleged encounter until the night of the incident.
Both were said to have been on the same train, but in different cars. The prosecution says Schuch went up behind the other man and struck him with a skateboard without warning.
A witness who was with the injured man said the two appeared to recognize each other when they crossed paths. She said they made eye contact but did not speak. She described the moment as uncomfortable and tense.
The defense gave a different version.
Schuch's lawyer told the court that he feared for his life when he saw the other man on the train. According to the defense, the injured man had previously carried out what was described as a "vicious" attack on Schuch before the train incident.
The attorney said Schuch never reported the alleged assault to police because he feared the man would kill him if authorities became involved.
The defense argues that Schuch believed he was under threat when he unexpectedly encountered the man again.
The attorney told Judge Christopher Harmon that the earlier attack played a significant role in how Schuch reacted during the train encounter.
The defense also questioned how the injuries happened, saying the medical findings could suggest the strike came from the front rather than from behind as described in the complaint.
Court documents describe the allegation that Schuch struck the man in the head and face using parts of the skateboard, including the wheels and axle.
Medical staff treated the victim for life threatening injuries and he spent time in intensive care due to the brain bleeding.
Schuch is known as an influencer in skateboarding with a YouTube channel, a clothing line, and steady work. Court records also list him as ranked 266th worldwide in men's skateboarding.
After the hearing, the court allowed Schuch to be released under supervision. He must wear an ankle monitor and is not allowed to contact the other man involved in the case.
The judge also warned him directly in court, telling him not to even think about the victim going forward.
The case remains active, and Schuch is scheduled to return to court on July 9, where both sides are expected to continue presenting their arguments regarding the incident.