Ex-Jets QB Mark Sanchez Arrested After Stabbing Incident in Indianapolis Pub Brawl
Former New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez was hospitalized and later charged following a violent altercation outside an Indianapolis bar early Saturday morning, according to police.
The 38-year-old retired NFL star was allegedly involved in a fight with a 69-year-old food delivery driver in an alley near Loughmiller’s Pub & Eatery shortly after midnight. Police say the dispute began when Sanchez confronted the man over his parked car.
According to investigators, the driver claimed Sanchez grew aggressive and advanced on him. When pepper spray failed to subdue Sanchez, the driver pulled a knife and stabbed him once in the chest, saying it was in self-defense. Both men were injured during the struggle and transported to a local hospital.
Charges and Condition
Sanchez was charged with misdemeanor counts of battery with injury, unlawful entry of a motor vehicle, and public intoxication. At the hospital, he underwent surgery for stab wounds to the chest. His condition has since been upgraded from critical to stable, though he has not yet been booked into jail due to his medical recovery.
The delivery driver also suffered significant injuries, though he was not publicly identified. Detectives are reviewing surveillance video and witness accounts, and prosecutors will determine whether further charges are warranted.
Fallout
Fox Sports, where Sanchez works as an analyst, confirmed he is recovering and issued a statement thanking doctors and asking for privacy. Sanchez had been scheduled to help call Sunday’s Colts–Raiders game.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett addressed the incident, praising first responders and reminding visitors to “enjoy our community respectfully and peacefully.”
NFL Community Reacts
The stabbing stunned many in football circles. Former Colts punter Pat McAfee called the news “heartbreaking and scary,” while ex-Jets wideout Keyshawn Johnson sent prayers, calling Sanchez “my guy and USC brother.”
Sanchez, a first-round pick out of USC in 2009, played eight NFL seasons, leading the Jets to two AFC Championship appearances before stints with the Eagles, Cowboys, Bears, and Washington. He retired in 2019 and transitioned into broadcasting.
Police have not yet released Sanchez’s version of events, and the investigation remains ongoing.