INDIANAPOLIS — Multiple outlets like ESPN and TMZ report that former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez sustained serious injuries from a stabbing incident in downtown Indianapolis early Saturday morning.
The individual accused of stabbing Sanchez claims it was an act of self-defense, labeling the ex-NFL quarterback as the instigator in the altercation, according to information obtained by FOX59/CBS4.
According to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, around 12:30 a.m. Saturday, officers were called to a reported shooting. They found two men involved in a confrontation, with one suffering “lacerations” and the other showing injuries indicative of stab wounds.
While at the hospital, Sanchez was detained for his involvement in the situation, confirmed by IMPD. He faces charges of battery, unlawful vehicle entry, and public intoxication — all categorized as misdemeanors. Despite being charged, he remains hospitalized.
FOX59/CBS4 gathered further details on the event, including the perspective of the person who reportedly stabbed Sanchez.
The stabbing is said to have occurred near Loughmiller’s Pub & Eatery. Sanchez was purportedly stabbed in the chest and required hospitalization for surgery. According to sources, he is the individual police have listed in critical condition.
The second individual also reportedly had “significant injuries” and claimed Sanchez was the aggressor in the incident and that he was merely defending himself with a knife.
According to FOX59/CBS4 sources, Sanchez wasn’t cooperative with responding police officers.
The second individual involved in the incident reportedly told police he was making a food delivery when Sanchez told him to leave and that he couldn’t park in the alley. The victim claimed Sanchez became aggressive and used pepper spray. This is when the individual claimed to stab Sanchez in self-defense.
It is important to note that FOX59/CBS4 sources said that Sanchez has not yet given his account of how events unfolded.
Sanchez was scheduled to broadcast the Colts vs. Raiders game at Lucas Oil Stadium with FOX Sports on Sunday.
Sanchez, a 38-year-old former New York Jets quarterback, starred at USC from 2005 to 2008 and was selected fifth overall by the Jets in the 2009 NFL Draft.
FOX59/CBS4 reached out to FOX Sports, who responded with the following statement.
Mark Sanchez was injured in Indianapolis on Saturday and is currently recovering in the hospital in stable condition. We are deeply grateful to the medical team for their exceptional care and support. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mark, and we ask that everyone please respect his and his family’s privacy during this time.
-FOX Sports
This is a developing story; check back for updates.
