Perry Tole, a 69-year-old truck driver, has initiated legal proceedings against former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez and Fox Corporation, alleging that Sanchez incited a fight that left Tole with significant injuries, including severe disfigurement and emotional distress. The lawsuit was filed in Indiana state court.
The altercation occurred late Saturday night outside a downtown Indianapolis hotel, where Tole claims Sanchez, who was reportedly smelling of alcohol, accosted him after he parked his truck in a loading dock. According to court documents, Sanchez entered Tole's vehicle without consent and physically confronted Tole, who subsequently sprayed Sanchez with pepper spray in self-defense. Tole claims that Sanchez then advanced towards him, prompting Tole to pull out a knife for protection.
During this confrontation, both men sustained serious injuries. Tole was reported to be in a neck brace and covered in blood, while Sanchez suffered stab wounds to his torso and was admitted to a hospital.
Mark Sanchez is currently facing felony battery charges, in addition to other misdemeanor charges, as prosecutors detail the incident stemming from a dispute over parking. The Marion County prosecutor noted the absurdity of a fight over a parking space resulting in such severe injuries.
The lawsuit seeks actual and punitive damages, alongside attorney's fees. Tole's attorneys have requested a jury trial, but they did not respond to inquiries following the filing of the suit.