MONTEGO BAY, St James — What prosecutors say began as a brief shoulder bump during the morning commuting rush has spiralled into a case now before the St James Parish Court.

Ashawn Cargill stood before Judge Natiesha Fairclough-Hylton on Wednesday, charged with assault occasioning bodily harm and unlawful wounding.

According to court documents, the incident unfolded about 8:30 am on December 10, 2025. The complainant was reportedly on his way to work when Cargill used his shoulder to jostle him and asked, “How yuh a pree mi suh?”

It is further alleged that the complainant watched as Cargill walked away. He then retrieved a machete and approached Cargill while he was not looking, chopping him to the back of his head.

A physical altercation followed.

During the scuffle, Cargill allegedly punched the complainant in his eyes and face. The complainant, who sustained wounds to his eyes, reported that he then felt someone beating him with a machete on his legs.

Both men were transported to Cornwall Regional Hospital for treatment.

Cargill was later arrested and charged. Under caution, he told investigators he was defending himself.

The matter is to be mentioned again on March 25, when the court is also expected to address a cross-case in which the complainant will answer as a defendant.