A man remains on a liquid diet after having his jaw broken during a fight in Wangaratta.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Jayden May, 27, was arrested by detectives on Friday after allegedly kicking the man in his head, leading to him being flown to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
His jaw was broken in two places and he needed a plate and screws installed.
Two other men were allegedly assaulted during the altercation, which the Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Monday heard was over a "comment made in jest".
The incident occurred at the Old Town and Country Tavern car park on September 16, and the court heard one of the victims threw the first punch.
The court heard the man with the broken jaw was unable to eat solid food, which was unlikely to change for months.
Other injuries to the alleged victims include a broken nose and cuts requiring stitches.
May was allegedly captured on security cameras at the venue's bottle shop, and the assaults were filmed from a long distance away.
Co-accused Chloe Kungl was also arrested by police on Friday at the pair's house, and officers seized clothes similar to those captured by the security cameras.
IN OTHER NEWS:
Cannabis, ice, speed and Xanax were allegedly found during the search.
Kungl was charged and bailed on similar charges to May.
Allegations that two witnesses to the incident have been contacted by third parties, and asked to change their statements, are being investigated by police.
Lawyer Geoff Clancy said self-defence would be an issue in the matter and the charges were being contested.
It's alleged May instigated the group going out into the car park before the fight after taking exception to something said to him.
Magistrate Lance Martin said if kicking was involved, "quite clearly ... that would go beyond self-defence".
He said the fact one complainant had a broken jaw elevated the matter.
But Mr Martin said he was satisfied bail should be granted, with May to return to court on October 18.
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:
- Bookmark https://www.bordermail.com.au/
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter: @bordermail
- Follow us on Instagram @bordermail
- Follow us on Google News
