A former high school wrestler’s quick thinking turned an ordinary lunch break into a moment of heroism at an Indianapolis Subway restaurant.
Gabriel Pitzulo was visiting the E. Hanna Ave location on March 22 when he witnessed a disturbing scene unfold – a man allegedly verbally abusing an employee, throwing items at her, and even spitting on her.
“How I was raised, you don’t do that stuff. It was kind of go time from there,” Pitzulo told ABC affiliate WRTV.
When the alleged aggressor, later identified by police as 31-year-old Daniel Saunders, attempted to leave the establishment, Pitzulo’s athletic background kicked in. Drawing on his experience as a former high school wrestler and football player, Pitzulo tackled Saunders to the ground.
“I did combat sports for quite a while, so I was completely controlling,” Pitzulo explained. “I didn’t want to hurt him too bad.”
Surveillance footage captured the entire incident, showing Pitzulo restraining Saunders on the floor until police arrived at the scene.
According to police records, Saunders now faces multiple charges including battery injury, battery resulting in bodily injury, and disorderly conduct-fighting/tumultuous conduct. Attorney information for Saunders was not immediately available, though records indicate his next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday.
Aara Khan, district manager for the Subway location, expressed gratitude for Pitzulo’s intervention.
“It could’ve turned out very dangerous,” Khan told WRTV. “Luckily he was here at the right time and the right place.”
