Former Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez was charged by cops Saturday for a bloody brawl outside a downtown Indianapolis bar with a 69-year-old delivery driver — who wound up stabbing the retired NFL star’s chest in what he said was self defense, police said.
The violence allegedly broke out when Sanchez confronted the driver in an alley outside Loughmiller’s Pub & Eatery just after midnight and told the worker to move his car, according to FOX59/CBS4.
The driver — who was dropping off a food order — told cops the ex–quarterback became aggressive, forcing him to fight back in self-defense with a knife after pepper spray failed to stop him, the outlet reported.
Ex-Jets QB Mark Sanchez was arrested at the hospital following incident at an Indianapolis pub where he was stabbed in the chest. Getty Images
Police said Sanchez, 38, was taken to a local hospital in critical condition and later charged with misdemeanor counts of battery with injury, unlawful entry of a motor vehicle and public intoxication.
He remains hospitalized and had not yet been booked into the Marion County Adult Detention Center as of Saturday night.
Investigators said both men were injured during the altercation. The delivery driver, who has not been publicly identified, also suffered “significant injuries,” according to police.
Sources told FOX59/CBS4 that Sanchez was uncooperative with responding officers and had to undergo surgery for stab wounds to the chest. His condition was later upgraded to stable.
The violence allegedly broke out when Sanchez confronted the driver in an alley outside Loughmiller’s Pub & Eatery just after midnight and told the worker to move his car, according to local reports. WTHR
Sanchez, a Fox Sports analyst, was in Indianapolis to call Sunday’s Colts–Raiders game at Lucas Oil Stadium. The network said in a statement that he is “recovering in the hospital in stable condition.”
“We are deeply grateful to the medical team for their exceptional care and support,” Fox Sports said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Mark, and we ask that everyone please respect his and his family’s privacy during this time.”
Here’s the latest on the Mark Sanchez stabbing and arrest
Police said both Sanchez and the other man were not Indianapolis residents.
Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and witness statements to determine whether additional charges will be filed.
Prosecutors will review the case to decide on formal charges.
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According to FOX59/CBS4, the 69-year-old told investigators he was delivering food when Sanchez ordered him to leave and blocked his vehicle in the alley.
When the man tried to defuse the situation, Sanchez allegedly advanced on him. The driver said he sprayed Sanchez with pepper spray, and when that didn’t work, he pulled a knife and stabbed him once in the chest.
Police said Sanchez has not yet provided his account of what happened.
Police said Sanchez has not yet provided his account of what happened. Getty Images
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said he was monitoring the investigation.
“Our city takes pride in being a destination that draws people from near and far, but it’s important that everyone who visits or enjoys our community does so respectfully and peacefully,” Hogsett said.
“I’m grateful to the IMPD officers and Indianapolis EMS medical professionals who responded immediately to provide life-saving care.”
Sanchez, a first-round draft pick out of USC in 2009, spent eight seasons in the NFL and led the Jets to two AFC Championship appearances before finishing his career with the Eagles, Cowboys, Bears, and Washington.
He retired in 2019 and joined Fox Sports as an analyst.
As of Saturday evening, Sanchez remained hospitalized in stable condition following surgery.
As of Saturday evening, Sanchez remained hospitalized in stable condition following surgery. mark_sanchez/instagram
Former teammates and NFL figures posted messages of support after reports of the stabbing.
“Man… this is heartbreaking and scary to read. GODSPEED on your recovery (Mark Sanchez),” former Colts punter Pat McAfee wrote on X.
Former Jets receiver Keyshawn Johnson added, “Damn man… Prayers up for my guy and USC brother Mark Sanchez. This is ridiculous!”
Police have not said whether alcohol played a role in the fight, though Sanchez faces a public intoxication charge. IMPD said the incident remains under active investigation.
Officials urged anyone with video or information about the encounter to contact detectives or submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana.
This is a developing story.