Mark Sanchez Faces Felony Charge; Driver Sues

Former NFL quarterback and Fox Sports analyst Mark Sanchez was hospitalized Oct. 4 after being stabbed in Indianapolis and is recovering; Fox says he has been absent from broadcasts. Police reports and court filings allege Sanchez approached and assaulted 69-year-old grease-truck operator Perry Tole in a loading-dock alley, and surveillance footage and witness statements corroborate aspects of the dispute. The truck driver says he used pepper spray and then a knife in what he describes as self‑defense; both men were injured, with Sanchez treated for multiple stab wounds and Tole treated for a facial laceration. Sanchez was initially arrested on misdemeanor counts, and prosecutors have upgraded at least one count to a Level 5 felony battery resulting in serious bodily injury (punishable by one to six years); additional charges are possible as investigators review evidence. Tole has filed a civil lawsuit against Sanchez alleging assault and battery and has named Fox Corporation, accusing negligent hiring and supervision and seeking damages for severe injuries and disfigurement.