Former NHL player Paul Bissonnette recently found himself hospitalized following a violent incident involving multiple assailants at a Scottsdale, Arizona restaurant. Bissonnette, who is now a hockey analyst and podcaster, shared his experience in a video posted to social media.
The confrontation took place at Houston’s restaurant over the weekend, where Bissonnette was dining when he noticed a commotion at the bar. A group of intoxicated golfers had refused to leave, leading to tensions escalating. Concerned for the restaurant staff, Bissonnette attempted to intervene by politely asking one of the aggressive patrons to stop harassing the manager.
However, his attempt to defuse the situation quickly turned chaotic as he was surrounded and attacked by seven men. The confrontation spilled out from the restaurant into the parking lot and eventually to a nearby CVS. Bissonnette reported enduring multiple blows to the head during the scuffle but fortunately did not suffer severe injuries.
After the incident, he expressed gratitude to the restaurant staff and the rapid response of the police, who arrested six of the seven men involved. The authorities confirmed the attackers are facing charges of assault and disorderly conduct.
Bissonnette criticized the unacceptable behavior exhibited by the group, denouncing their actions as inappropriate for a family dining environment. Despite the violent altercation, he maintains a sense of resilience, noting that while he took some hits, he was able to defend himself and come away with only minor injuries.
This incident highlights the unfortunate reality of public disturbances and the importance of swiftly addressing such behavior to ensure the safety of patrons and staff in public spaces. Bissonnette’s quick action in attempting to protect restaurant employees demonstrates a commendable commitment to standing up against violence, even in challenging circumstances.
In conclusion, while the situation was undoubtedly distressing, Bissonnette’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of community and vigilance in safeguarding our shared public spaces.