Bar Brawl Turns Violent: Bottle Smash Leads to Arrest

A 23‑year‑old man was taken into custody after police say he struck another patron with a beer bottle outside a Joliet sports bar. The incident happened late Thursday night when the two men were arguing near the entrance of Longshots Sports Bar & Grill. Witnesses report that the victim, a 37‑year‑old man, suffered a deep cut on his cheek from the bottle. He was found bleeding heavily and received medical attention. The suspect, Levale Farley Jr. , faced felony charges of aggravated battery. He was booked into Will County jail, where court records show he has no listed home address. A judge later released him on bail but required him to surrender any firearms and keep distance from the victim.

Police notes indicate that the altercation began inside the bar. The victim claimed he was offered a free drink, and Farley gave him $5 to purchase one if no free drinks were available. When the victim used that money for someone else’s drink, tensions rose. Farley allegedly accused him of wanting to fight and the argument escalated outside. According to the victim, Farley pushed and shoved him while he tried to calm things down. He then allegedly hit the victim’s face with a full beer bottle, causing serious lacerations. Farley’s account mirrored the victim’s in some details but added that he was being pushed and head‑butted. He reportedly fled to a nearby gas station after the assault, fearing further conflict. The case is still under investigation. Prosecutors are looking into whether the suspect’s actions meet the legal definition of aggravated battery and what evidence will support the charges.

Actions