The family of Mark Sanchez is speaking out following the former NFL quarterback and FOX broadcaster’s arrest in Indianapolis over the weekend.
In a statement obtained by USA Today, his relatives described the past few days as “deeply distressing,” while emphasizing his focus on recovery after being hospitalized with stab wounds.
“This has been a deeply distressing time for everyone involved,” Sanchez’s brother, Nick Sanchez Jr., said on behalf of the family. “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.”
The statement came after an early-morning altercation on October 4 outside the Westin Hotel in downtown Indianapolis. According to police, Mark attempted to enter a delivery truck without permission and shoved the driver, 69-year-old Perry Tole.
Tole told investigators that he feared for his life after Mark blocked him from making a phone call, prompting him to deploy pepper spray and then use a knife in self-defense. Mark was stabbed multiple times and transported to the hospital.
On October 6, Marion County prosecutors upgraded the charges against the 38-year-old broadcaster. He now faces Level 5 felony battery resulting in serious bodily injury, in addition to misdemeanor battery, unlawful entry of a motor vehicle, and public intoxication.
Mark has pleaded not guilty, with a court date scheduled for November.
The fallout has extended into civil court. Tole filed a lawsuit against both Sanchez and FOX Corporation, alleging assault and battery against the former quarterback and negligence against the network.
The suit claims FOX “knew or should have known” about Mark’s alleged history with alcohol and contends the company should be held accountable for employing him. Tole is seeking compensatory and punitive damages.
Mark, who played ten seasons in the NFL before transitioning to broadcasting in 2021, had been in Indianapolis to call the Colts’ October 5 game against the Las Vegas Raiders. FOX replaced him on the broadcast with Brady Quinn following the incident.