Heads are turning as former NFL quarterback and current FOX Sports commentator, Mark Sanchez, faces serious legal issues. He’s reportedly involved in a stabbing that occurred on Friday, October 3. Now, the family of the 69-year-old victim has released stark, explicit photos of the man’s severe injuries.
The victim’s family shared these images with local news outlet FOX59 on Sunday, October 5. They want to stay out of the public eye. All the media attention surrounding the case makes them nervous.
FOX59 reported on the images. They showed the serious damage the 69-year-old man suffered in the attack. The family noted the man was cut during the fight. The wound went right through his cheek and reached his tongue.
On the same day, Sanchez, 38, was charged by prosecutors in Marion County. He faces misdemeanor counts of assault causing injury, public intoxication, and unlawful entry into a vehicle. An initial court hearing for Sanchez is set for Tuesday, October 7, with bail fixed at $300.
According to a report from FOX59, Indianapolis police responded to Loughmiller’s Pub and Eatery around 12:30 a.m. There, they found Sanchez with several stab wounds to his upper torso. A 69-year-old man was also found near the scene. He had cuts on his face. At the time, he worked as a delivery driver between the Westin hotel and the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown.
NFL Commentator Mark Sanchez Brooke Sutton/Getty Images
What the Investigation Reveals
We’re getting more details about what went down. A probable cause affidavit, obtained by FOX59, gives us a clearer picture. It states Sanchez approached the older man on a loading dock. They chatted for a bit. Then, things took a sharp turn, becoming physical. The 69-year-old reportedly felt he was in danger.
Detectives heard the man say Sanchez appeared drunk. He could smell alcohol. The victim used pepper spray to defend himself. Sanchez, however, reportedly kept coming at him. So, the victim pulled a knife. He stabbed Sanchez multiple times in what he called self-defense.
The affidavit also says the delivery driver was thrown against a dumpster. He ended up on the ground. Sanchez then took off, according to the report.
Police arrested Sanchez on Saturday. He was at a hospital recovering. A statement from FOX Sports confirmed his condition was stable at that time.
Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears spoke out on Sunday. He made it clear: the dispute “should not have escalated to violence.” He added that no one should have been “gravely injured.” Mears promised his office will “follow the facts and the law wherever they lead.”
Sanchez’s Broadcast Role
Sanchez joined FOX Sports as a commentator in 2021. He was set to call the Indianapolis Colts vs. Las Vegas Raiders game on Sunday. This game was happening at Lucas Oil Stadium. But Brady Quinn had to step in for him instead. His broadcast partner, Chris Meyers, mentioned the event on air. Meyers shared his thoughts and prayers for Sanchez and all involved.
Sanchez played in the NFL for eight seasons. He was a fifth overall draft pick in 2009. He famously led the New York Jets to two AFC Championship finals in his first two years. He also played for the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, and Washington Commanders. He retired from the sport in 2019.