Police: Girl knocked to ground after being pushed, punched by man at Asheville mall

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — A Black Mountain man is accused of assaulting a child under 12 years old at a mall in Asheville Saturday evening.

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Asheville police said a fight involving juveniles broke out at the mall, and during the fight, David Steven Bell pushed a girl under 12 years old and then punched her.

An off-duty officer arrested Bell, 51, who is charged with one count of assault on a female under 12 and two counts of assault on a female.

In a video of the incident posted on Facebook, Bell could be seen shoving the girl after she moved toward him.

When the girl approached him again, he punches her in the face, knocking her to the ground.

Watch video here.

The girl's condition is unknown at this time.

This is an ongoing investigation. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.

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• Police: Girl knocked to ground after being pushed, punched by man at Asheville mall​​​​​​​

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