Almost 3 days have passed since Mark Sanchez got into the alleged stabbing accident. Following the scuffle in the Indianapolis alley, the police charged him with three misdemeanors. While he has remained tight-lipped about the situation, his family issued their first statement.

“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,” his brother Nick Sanchez said. He then gave an update about the former NY Jets QB’s condition.

“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.”

Sanchez, a former first-round NFL draft pick in 2009, played mainly for the Jets. He joined Fox Sports as an analyst in 2021. He was in Indianapolis to cover the Colts-Raiders game when the incident occurred.

Prosecutors in Marion County, Indiana, have added a felony battery charge against former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez after he allegedly attacked a 69-year-old truck driver in Indianapolis on Saturday. Sanchez, who is 38, has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The new charge is a Level 5 felony, which can lead to 1 to 6 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Sanchez already faced misdemeanor charges of battery resulting in injury, public intoxication, and unlawful entry of a motor vehicle. Prosecutors said the new felony charge was added because the incident involved ‘serious bodily injury.’

Authorities said the fight allegedly started over a parking dispute. Sanchez reportedly confronted the truck driver, identified as Perry Tole, after he parked his truck in an alley between two hotels. Video footage allegedly shows Sanchez trying to get into the truck multiple times before slamming Tole to the ground.

Tole told police that Sanchez smelled of alcohol and had slurred speech. He said he used pepper spray and later a knife to defend himself when Sanchez attacked. Sanchez was stabbed several times in the upper right torso, while Tole suffered a deep cut to his left cheek that required hospital treatment.

Mark Sanchez is ready for a court appearance

Police arrested Sanchez while he was being treated for his wounds. He was released from jail on Sunday after posting a $300 bond. His first court appearance is set for November 4.

Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears said the area where the fight happened had multiple surveillance cameras. And there were also several witnesses. He said the investigation is still ongoing, and more charges could be added later. Tole has also filed a civil lawsuit against Sanchez and Fox Sports, accusing them of assault, battery, and negligent hiring and supervision.

Indianapolis police chief Chris Bailey said at a press conference, “I don’t care who you are or what you do for a living. If you come into our city and commit violence, we’ll hold you accountable.”

Prosecutors said Tole’s age could be an aggravating factor that increases potential penalties. They also noted that his claim of self-defense will play a key role in the trial. As we get closer to the court hearing, expect more updates. Stay tuned as we will keep bringing those to you.