LIVONIA – During the preliminary exam for Baseel Abdul-Amir Saad on Wednesday, July 30, prosecutors presented a photo of Saad leaving Mies Park after punching soccer referee John Bieniewicz during a game on June 29. In the photo, Saad appears to be making an obscene gesture. 

“It appears his right arm is extended with his middle finger extended,” Detective Dennis Burklow testified. 

During the hearing, Saad, who faces second degree murder charges for the deadly punch that killed Bieniewicz, 44, of Westland, became emotional and started sobbing. 

Bieniewicz lived with his wife and two young children, ages 13 and 9. 

According to witnesses, Bieniewicz was looking down when Saad struck him, knocking him over and leaving him unconscious on the field. 

Several bystanders attempted to perform CPR until paramedics arrived. Saad fled the scene with a friend before authorities were notified. 

The assault occurred during the second half of the game, after Bieniewicz had ejected Saad.