FALL RIVER - A Fall River man accused of dealing a fatal punch during a bar fight this month has been released as he awaits trial.

The Herald News reports that Pholla Mao, 27, was released without bail following a dangerousness hearing in Fall River District Court on Monday. Prosecutors requested that Mao be held without bail, however, District Court Judge Kevin Finnerty declined the request, releasing Mao on the conditions that he maintain employment and report to a probation officer once a week.

Mao has been charged with manslaughter in the death of Bryce Sabol, 37, of Freetown.

According to testimony, Sabol had become belligerent at the Belmont Club on Franklin Street when he and another man exchanged words inside the bar. The argument spilled outside and Mao attempted to calm Sabol, who insisted on a fight. Mao then allegedly punched Sabol in the side of the head, causing him to fall to the ground unconscious.

Sabol died the next day at Rhode Island Hospital after a CT scan revealed bleeding in his brain.

Mao is due back in court for a pre-trial hearing at a later date.

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