MONTEGO BAY, St James — Tempers flared at Sangster International Airport on July 29, spilling over into an altercation that left a taxi operator injured. However, when the assault case against 42-year-old Michael Lynch was called up in the St James Parish Court on Wednesday the court was told he has since suffered a stroke that has created mobility issues.

According to court records, the complainant, a taxi operator, was negotiating fares with passengers when Lynch reportedly became involved in the discussion. Words quickly escalated into a confrontation, with Lynch allegedly accusing the taxi operator of dishonesty, exclaiming, “Unoo taxi man too tief.” The verbal exchange intensified, culminating in Lynch striking the complainant in the left eye, according to court documents.

The incident was promptly reported to police, leading to Lynch’s arrest and the subsequent charge of assault occasioning bodily harm.

During Wednesday’s court proceeding, his aunt represented him, informing the court that Lynch suffered a stroke on August 18, which was confirmed by a medical certificate. She also stated that he now requires assistance with mobility and daily activities.

In light of Lynch’s medical condition, Judge Natiesha Fairclough-Hylton issued a warrant but stayed its execution until September 17, when the case will be mentioned again.