Police reinterviewing witnesses in drummer's death

Jim Unfonak, the drummer for longtime area band bang n jane died as a result of a bar fight last Sunday. (Facebook photo)

ROCHESTER - Police continue to interview roughly a dozen witnesses as they continue their investigation into the death of popular Rochester musician Jim Unfonak, who died as a result of injuries sustained in an altercation with another man outside Gary's Sports Bar a week ago.

Unfonak, 44, the drummer for longtime area band favorite bang n jane, was declared brain dead later the day of the attack and taken off life support the following day.

Rochester Police first responded to Gary's Sports Bar on Milton Road at 1:33 a.m. Jan. 31 for a report of a man assaulted who needed medical attention.

According to sources close to the incident, Unfonak, whose band wasn't playing, got into an altercation with an individual at Gary's Sports Bar on Milton Road Saturday night. The individual and his friends left after being escorted out by bouncers, but at least one from the group and perhaps more, waited outside for Unfonak, then jumped him as he left the bar and went to get in his car.

Rochester Police Capt. Gary Boudreau said today that police have interviewed roughly a dozen witnesses and are now in the process of reinterviewing many of them, adding the investigation may be winding down soon.

"I'm hopeful we should have something by the end of this week or the beginning of next, and have some info to release to the public at that time," he said adding, "Sometimes justice takes time."

He added that police were examining evidence taken from the scene, but would not elaborate on what that evidence was. A preliminary autopsy report by the state's medical examiner's office completed last week will not be released for now, he added.

Boudreau also noted that Rochester Police have a polygraph machine and an officer certified in its use, but would not say whether or not any polygraph testing had been administered in the case.

Meanwhile, a Go Fund Me account has been set up to help with the funeral costs for Unfonak.

The account was set up by a relative of Unfonak and as of today had raised a little more than $4,300.

To contribute to the fund, click here.