Man accused of killing brother

The Corning man arrested in connection with the death of his brother was charged with voluntary manslaughter in Tehama County Superior Court on Thursday.

Clifford Manuel Palmer, 46, also had his bail amount reduced from $1 million to $60,000 during the court appearance.

Palmer is accused of killing his half-brother, Fermin Mitch Alberro, 40, during a fist fight on Tuesday.

The Sheriff's Department responded to 23132 Flournoy Ave., at 5:45 p.m. for a call from Palmer reporting Alberro was unconscious and unresponsive, said sheriff's Lt. Donald Thomas.

Deputies found Alberro lying in the entry way of the residence unconscious and not breathing, Thomas said.

Clifford was placed in a patrol vehicle, and the deputy initiated life-saving efforts on Alberro, who was declared dead at the scene, reported the Sheriff's Department.

Thomas said Palmer admitted that the two men had been consuming alcohol throughout the day and began arguing.

"Palmer said the argument turned into a physical fight and that he used his fist to strike (Alberro) in the face, and that his brother then fell to the floor unconscious," Thomas said.

Both men lived at the residence and, according to court documents, have a history of domestic violence.

Sheriff's Lt. Dave Greer said an autopsy will be conducted to determine cause of death.

He said no weapons have been seized and the case is under investigation.