ST JAMES, Jamaica – A St James man, who allegedly attempted to punch a woman during a heated argument but mistakenly struck her four months old baby, will be subject to a trial as their attempt to resolve the issue through mediation has failed.

The defendant, Mario Dunbar, is charged with assault occasioning bodily harm.

He appeared in the St James Parish Court on Wednesday before presiding parish judge Sasha-Marie Smith-Ashley.

According to the allegations, on April 4, the complainant was travelling in a taxi driven by the accused. Upon reaching Market Street, an argument developed between them. The accused man then pulled over and attempted to throw the complainant out of the car. He then swung his fist at the complaint, but it missed and struck the complainant’s baby instead, causing pain and swelling.

During Wednesday’s sitting, the case was temporarily postponed to allow the parties to speak with a restorative justice representative who was present in court. They were unable to reach an agreement, and the complainant expressed her desire to proceed with a trial.

Sasha-Marie Smith-Ashley set a June 2 mention date and also extended Dunbar’s bail.