According to FOX59/CBS4, police sources say the man accused of stabbing Sanchez is claiming self-defense, alleging that Sanchez was the aggressor in the confrontation.
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) stated that officers were called to the 300 block of West Washington Street just after 12:30 a.m. on a report of a person shot. When they arrived, officers instead found one person suffering from stab wounds and another with additional injuries.
IMPD confirmed that Sanchez was arrested for his role in the altercation. He was taken into custody at the hospital on preliminary misdemeanor charges of battery with injury, unlawful entry of a motor vehicle, and public intoxication. Sanchez remains hospitalized and has not yet been booked into the Adult Detention Center.
Investigators say the incident involved a physical fight between two men—one sustaining stab wounds and the other receiving cuts. Both individuals are from out of town, and IMPD has declined to release their names at this time.
Sources told FOX59/CBS4 that the altercation occurred near Loughmiller’s Pub & Eatery. Sanchez was reportedly stabbed in the chest and underwent surgery at a local hospital, where he was initially listed in critical condition. The second man also suffered serious injuries and claimed that he acted in self-defense after Sanchez allegedly became aggressive and used pepper spray.
According to police sources, Sanchez was not cooperative with officers at the scene. The other individual reportedly told investigators that he was making a food delivery when Sanchez confronted him, telling him to move his vehicle before the dispute escalated.
Sanchez has not yet provided his own version of events, police said. Both men were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The 38-year-old former New York Jets quarterback, who played at USC before being selected fifth overall in the 2009 NFL Draft, was in Indianapolis to broadcast Sunday’s Colts-Raiders game for FOX Sports.
In a statement, FOX Sports said:
“Mark Sanchez was injured in Indianapolis on Saturday and is currently recovering in the hospital in stable condition. We are deeply grateful to the medical team for their exceptional care and support. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mark, and we ask that everyone please respect his and his family’s privacy during this time.”
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett also issued a statement, saying:
“I’m monitoring reports of an altercation in our city involving two individuals who do not appear to live in Indianapolis. Our city takes pride in being a destination that draws people from near and far, but it’s important that everyone who visits or enjoys our community does so respectfully and peacefully. I’m grateful to the IMPD officers and Indianapolis EMS medical professionals who responded immediately to provide life-saving care. IMPD continues to thoroughly investigate this isolated incident.”
Several former NFL players have reacted to the news. Former Colts punter Pat McAfee wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“Man… this is heartbreaking and scary to read. GODSPEED on your recovery, Mark Sanchez.”
Former Jets receiver Keyshawn Johnson also posted:
“Damn man… Prayers up for my guy and USC brother Mark Sanchez. This is ridiculous!”
