BOISE - A Treasure Valley man accused of killing an acquaintance is now facing a more severe penalty.

Authorities had originally charged Joshua Luman with involuntary manslaughter after he allegedly punched an acquaintance back in September causing an injury that police believe led to the victim's death.

Barbara Duggan, Ada County deputy prosecuting attorney, said Thursday that Luman is now charged with second degree murder.

On Sept. 8, a staff member of a downtown Boise hospital reported a patient who died of suspicious injuries. The victim, Noah Hopper, 26, had reportedly been brought to the hospital by two acquaintances.

Boise Police investigated and learned the victim and at least two other people, including the suspect, had apparently been drinking at the bandshell at Julia Davis Park. Police believe Luman, 26, punched the victim in the face who then fell and hit his head.

Duggan would not elaborate as to why they decided to charge Luman with the more serious crime. The maximum penalty for second degree murder is life in prison.

Luman's next scheduled court date is Dec. 4.