Former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez is fighting for his life after being stabbed in Indianapolis. The 38-year-old athlete was in the Indiana city for a planned FOX Sports appearance when the attack occurred on Friday, October 3, TMZ reported.
UPDATE: 2:14 pm:
Sanchez was rushed to a local hospital and is currently listed in critical condition, according to the outlet. Police responded to a call shortly after midnight about two people injured in the area, though details about what led to the stabbing remain unclear.
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), FOX Sports, and representatives for Sanchez have not yet commented on the incident.
Police Launch Investigation Into the Attack
Authorities have opened an active investigation into the violent incident. According to TMZ, Sanchez had been in town to call Sundayâs game between the Indianapolis Colts and the Las Vegas Raiders at Lucas Oil Stadium.
The report stated that the attack took place the night before his scheduled appearance, leaving fans and sports colleagues stunned.
Sanchezâs NFL Legacy & Post-Retirement Career
Sanchez played 10 seasons in the NFL after being drafted by the New York Jets in 2009. He went on to play for several teams, including the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, and Washington Redskins, before retiring in 2019.
After hanging up his cleats, Sanchez transitioned into sports broadcasting, joining ESPN and later FOX Sports as a game-day analyst. Known for his charisma and insight, he quickly became a fan favorite among viewers.
Family, Fans & Colleagues Send Messages of Support
Sanchezâs wife, actress Perry Mattfeld of “Shameless” fame, has not yet issued a public statement. The couple married in May 2023 in a romantic ceremony at a 16th-century monastery in Oaxaca, Mexico.
As news of the stabbing spread, fans and former teammates flooded social media with prayers and well-wishes. Many described Sanchez as âa class actâ and âa fighter,â expressing hope for his recovery.
FOX Sports Issues Statement on Mark Sanchezâs Condition
FOX Sports confirmed the news in a statement shared with FOX59/CBS4, expressing gratitude for the medical professionals treating the former NFL quarterback.
âMark Sanchez was injured in Indianapolis on Saturday and is currently recovering in the hospital in stable condition,â the network said. âWe 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 familyâs privacy during this time.â
This is a developing story.
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