97-Year-Old Bartender Assaulted by Customer at Southwest Florida Bar

San Carlos Island, FL - A 97-year-old bartender at a Southwest Florida bar is recovering after being attacked by a patron last week.

Lee County Sheriff's Office deputies were dispatched to the San Carlos Boulevard bar after reports of a physical altercation on Thursday.

According to authorities, 97-year-old Betty Kai, a longtime fixture behind the bar, was the victim of the assault.

Kai reported that 24-year-old Sarah Powell entered the bar claiming to be the owner's sister.

Recognizing this as false, Kai informed Powell the owner would be arriving later.

The report details that Powell, exhibiting signs of intoxication, returned shortly after and requested drinks.

When Kai refused to serve alcohol, Powell became aggressive.

Threats were exchanged, and Powell attempted to re-enter the bar.

Kai, in an attempt to maintain order, blocked her entry, leading to a physical confrontation.

Powell grabbed Kai's arm, and during the ensuing struggle, landed a punch to the elderly woman's face.

Patrons intervened, restraining Powell and removing her from the bar.

Kai secured the establishment and contacted law enforcement.

The assault left Kai with cuts to her arm and facial swelling.

Powell, who had already fled the scene by the time deputies arrived, was later located near Third Street and Old San Carlos Boulevard.

Authorities report she attempted to provide a false name, resist arrest, and even lunged at a deputy before being subdued.

Powell now faces a string of charges including providing a false name to law enforcement, battery on a senior citizen, battery on a law enforcement officer, and resisting arrest.

She is currently being held at the Lee County Jail.