Police release photo of guy wanted for South Boston salt-shaker attack that left man with severe brain injuries

Boston Police have released a photo of the guy they say punched a man to the floor at the Boston Beer Garden on East Broadway in December.

C-6 detectives report the guy grabbed a salt shaker, made a fist around that and then slammed the man in the head around 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 18.

The victim crumpled to the floor and was taken to the hospital with critical, possibly permanent, brain injuries. He was still in the hospital as of Jan. 31.

Detectives say the attacker then fled and hopped into a waiting car, possibly with Connecticut plates.

Possible motive: The victim, upset with his party's bill, flung the bill holder into the air, striking the guy in the T-shirt, who responded to the affront with the salt shaker and his fist.

If the guy in the photo looks familiar, contact C-6 detectives at 617-343-4742 or the anonymous tip line by calling 800-494-TIPS or texting TIP to CRIME (27463).