St. Elmo Steakhouse, known as one of Indiana’s top restaurants, is pushing back against claims that they overserved former Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez before he allegedly attacked a grease truck driver.
The restaurant’s parent company, Hughes Culinary, responded to accusations from Perry Toll, 69, who claims Sanchez was “visibly intoxicated” at the establishment prior to the incident.
According to Toll, Sanchez was an “invited guest” at St. Elmo’s while working as a Fox Sports analyst in the hours leading up to the alleged altercation.
St. Elmo is a popular spot for tourists in Indianapolis, especially during NFL game weekends, and has a reputation as a favored gathering place for fans, including those of Peyton Manning’s Colts.
The upscale restaurant is particularly famous for its shrimp cocktails and high-end steaks, such as a 32-ounce aged tomahawk ribeye priced at $155.
Toll is also pursuing legal action against Sanchez and Fox Sports following the assault that occurred on October 4. It’s alleged that Sanchez repeatedly punched Toll in an alley, leading to an altercation where Toll stabbed Sanchez in self-defense.
Toll reports significant and lasting injuries from the incident, which has led to additional complications.
This incident has brought criminal charges against Sanchez as well. After the October accusations surfaced, the restaurant was added to the lawsuit, and in early December, Hughes Culinary filed a response, denying any responsibility for the events that unfolded.
Sanchez was in Indianapolis for a game between the Raiders and the Colts when the incident occurred. Toll, reportedly picking up cooking oil, had parked at a loading dock nearby and was behaving strangely in the alley behind a local pub.
Authorities reported that Sanchez attempted to get Toll to move his truck, which escalated into an altercation where Sanchez allegedly tackled Toll, used pepper spray, and was subsequently stabbed.
Both men received medical attention following the incident, with Sanchez undergoing surgery for his injuries.
Sanchez has pleaded not guilty to several charges, including battery causing serious bodily injury and public intoxication, facing up to six years in prison and fines if convicted. His trial is set for March 12.
Following the incident, Sanchez was let go from Fox Sports in early November.
The attorney representing Hughes Culinary did not provide immediate comments regarding the situation.
