Former NHL player and current hockey analyst Paul Bissonnette was hospitalized following a violent altercation involving seven men at an Arizona restaurant over the weekend, as he reported.
Bissonnette, who is known for his time with the Phoenix Coyotes and his work as a podcaster, shared his experience in a video posted to X on Monday. The incident took place at Houston’s, a restaurant in Scottsdale that he often visits.
On Sunday night, while dining, Bissonnette observed a commotion at the bar, which involved a group of intoxicated golfers. “Things obviously continued to escalate,” he noted. “They asked one guy to leave, and then one guy kept getting in the manager’s face, putting his hands on him.”
Concerned about the escalating situation, Bissonnette intervened, approaching the disruptive individual and warning him about his behavior. “So I went over. I just grabbed the guy’s arm that was on him. I said, ‘Sir, if you continue to harass and assault the staff, we’re gonna have problems,’” he recalled. This led to an immediate physical confrontation with the group.
The altercation quickly moved from the restaurant to the parking lot and eventually to a nearby CVS store. Bissonnette described being taken down multiple times and receiving several blows to the head. Fortunately, he did not lose consciousness but was eventually taken to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
Following the incident, the Scottsdale Police Department confirmed that six of the seven assailants were arrested and face charges, including assault and disorderly conduct. Bissonnette expressed gratitude towards the restaurant staff and police for their quick response to the chaotic situation.
He expressed outrage at the behavior of the individuals involved, stating, “Just unacceptable behavior at a family restaurant, simply because they couldn’t grab another cocktail and didn’t want to hear no for an answer.”
This incident highlights the importance of maintaining a safe environment in communal spaces and the responsibility of individuals to act appropriately. Bissonnette’s willingness to step in during an altercation, while recognizing the risks, showcases a courageous stance against violence. It serves as a reminder that standing up for what is right can lead to both positive and challenging outcomes.
In hopes of fostering a more respectful atmosphere in public settings, we can reflect on Bissonnette’s experience as a reminder that intoxication does not excuse harmful behavior. It’s a call for improved awareness and accountability in our social interactions to create safer community spaces for everyone.