The family of former New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez have broken their silence after he was stabbed and arrested following a dispute in Indianapolis. Sanchez, 38, was charged with misdemeanour battery, public intoxication and unlawful entry of a vehicle, but has now been upgraded to a felony charge.
According to court documents, the incident occurred shortly after midnight on Saturday outside Loughmiller's Pub & Eatery. Sanchez allegedly became upset with a 69-year-old grease truck driver over a parking spot, approached the driver's door and a physical altercation ensued. The driver, who was not wearing his hearing aids, told police he feared for his safety.
Footage shows Sanchez throwing the man to the ground, after which the driver stabbed him multiple times. Sanchez was seen staggering from the alley clutching his wounds and was taken to hospital, where he remains in a stable condition. The driver has since filed a lawsuit, claiming permanent disfigurement.
Sanchez's brother Nick released a statement to TMZ Sports, saying: '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. Mark remains under medical care for the serious injuries he sustained and is focused on his recovery as the legal process continues.'
Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears announced the upgraded charge, stating: 'We are literally talking about people fighting about a parking spot.' Sanchez's hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, October 7. His bond was initially set at $300.
