A MAN has had to have two metal plates inserted in his jaw after he was punched at a local rodeo.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The 22-year-old underwent surgery in a Newcastle hospital after suffering a broken jaw in a reported altercation at the Barraba rodeo, last week.
Oxley detectives are investigating reports the man was struck in the side of the face from behind between 11.30pm and 12.30am on March 3, and fell to the ground.
Police have been told he woke on the ground with blood coming from his face.
The man was taken to a friend’s house before travelling to the Central West the following day.
RELATED ARTICLE: Barraba and region count down to 107th show
He then went to Merriwa hospital for treatment and was later transferred to Muswellbrook hospital before being transported to Newcastle for surgery.
Police have been told the man had two metal plates fixed in his jaw and is recovering.
The incident was reported to police this week when the man was transferred for surgery.
Investigators have been told several people witnessed the altercation after an earlier conversation between a group of people at the rodeo.
Investigations are continuing, police said. No charges have been laid.
Anyone with information on the incident if urged to contact Oxley detectives on 6768 2999.