Former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez is now hospitalized after suffering traumatic injuries during a fight in downtown Indianapolis. Sanchez, who was in the city on assignment with the Fox broadcast crew, was streaming a game that was taking place between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Indianapolis Colts when the incident occurred. The former player, who has had a notable career in the NFL, faces a new felony charge related to the confrontation.
Sanchez enjoyed an eight-season career on the gridiron, playing for teams such as the New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys and Washington. Earlier this month he had a violent altercation with a 69-year-old truck driver. That initial confrontation exploded, and Sanchez was pepper-sprayed and then stabbed eight times, suffering serious injuries as a result. He was taken to the hospital with multiple stab wounds to his upper right chest. As of Monday morning, he was still stable.
The legal ramifications of the incident are still developing. Sanchez was initially scheduled for a preliminary hearing on misdemeanor charges. That hearing has now been rescheduled to November 4. In response to that incident, they have filed a new charge of battery against him. Serious bodily injury complicates this charge even further, which they’re already facing. This single charge could result in a sentence of one to six years’ incarceration.
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Chief Chris Bailey spoke to the moment with unyielding clarity. He said that the city cannot and will not tolerate violence.
“I don’t care who you are. I don’t care what you do for a living. I don’t care where you live,” – Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Chief Chris Bailey
So did Marion County prosecutor, Ryan Mears, concerned that the motivation behind the fight was alarming.
“If you come into our city, commit violence, we will use all the tools at our disposal to hold you accountable.”
As Mears noted, what happened here was entirely avoidable. He made points about the senselessness of the violence.
“We are literally talking about people fighting over a parking space and/or a dispute about where people are parking, and it resulted in someone receiving just incredibly significant injuries,” – Marion County prosecutor Ryan Mears
Sanchez’s brother, Nick Sanchez, offered a glimpse into the family’s spirit as they navigate through this trying period. He thanked all the people who have helped support them with donations and other acts of kindness, including friends and fellow community members.
He further mentioned that while his brother works to recover, he is living amidst the constant stress of the criminal case that still surrounds him.
“This has been a deeply distressing time for everyone involved. Mark and our family are incredibly grateful for the concern, love, and support we’ve received over the past few days,” – Nick Sanchez
Mark Sanchez was a star signal-caller. That led to him being selected fifth overall by the New York Jets in the 2009 NFL Draft following a dazzling career at USC. He was the first starting QB of the Jets franchise, and eventually went on to have long careers with the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs. His most recent appearance in a regular-season game was in 2018 with Washington.
“Mark remains under medical care for the serious injuries he sustained and is focused on his recovery as the legal process continues. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the first responders and medical staff.” – Nick Sanchez
Mark Sanchez is widely recognized for his football career, having been selected fifth overall by the New York Jets in the 2009 NFL Draft out of USC. He served as a starting quarterback for the Jets before moving on to play with other teams. His last appearance in a regular-season game was with Washington in 2018.
Leave a Reply