Mac & Mick's claims customer provoked attack

A Pontoon Beach sports bar argues that a former patron is responsible for provoking an incident at question in a dram shop law suit.

Daniel Robinson filed suit against Mac & Mick's Sports Bar & Grill in Madison County Circuit Court May 15, alleging he was injured on June 30, 2007, when he was struck in the face without provocation by a group of intoxicated patrons.

Robinson claims the assault caused him to suffer great pain and anguish which caused medical expenses and lost wages.

He claims Mac & Mick's failed to provide adequate security to break up arguments and fights, failed to protect patrons from injuries and failed to warn patrons of the dangerous condition that existed.

However, Mac & Mick's contends Robinson was not free from complicity in the events that precipitated the alleged assault.

The bar also claims that Robinson contributed, encouraged and participated in the consumption of alcohol and provoked the incident he complained of, therefore is not an innocent party under the terms and provisions of the Dram Shop Act and is not entitled to collect damages.

Mac & Mick's is represented by Ralph DeRango, Jr., of Belleville.

Robinson also is seeking damages from Matthew Blaylock, alleging he battered, struck, choked and stabbed him in the body leaving him seriously injured.

Robinson is represented by Morgan Scroggins of Granite City.

Madison County Circuit Judge Barbara Crowder has yet to set a hearing date.