Golf legend Tiger Woods was arrested and charged with driving under the influence with property damage following a rollover accident in Martin County last Friday. According to a probable cause affidavit released Tuesday, March 31, investigators discovered prescription opioids in the athlete’s possession and noted significant signs of physical impairment at the scene.
The incident occurred on the morning of Friday, March 27, when Woods, 50, crashed his Land Rover into a Ford F-150 towing a trailer. Woods reportedly told deputies he was distracted by his mobile phone while adjusting the vehicle’s radio and failed to notice the truck slowing down ahead of him.
In an attempt to avoid a rear-end collision, Woods veered into oncoming traffic, clipping the trailer and causing his SUV to roll onto the driver’s side. Onlookers and the truck driver assisted Woods in exiting the wreckage through the passenger side.
According to the affidavit obtained from the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, responding deputies observed multiple indicators of intoxication. The reporting officer described Woods’ eyes as “bloodshot and glassy” and his pupils as “extremely dilated.”
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During a search incident to the investigation, authorities allegedly discovered two hydrocodone pills in Woods’ left pants pocket. While Woods denied consuming alcohol, he admitted to taking “a few” prescription medications earlier that morning.
The affidavit detailed further irregularities in Woods’ behavior:
- Physical Signs: Despite the vehicle’s air conditioning running, Woods was reportedly “sweating profusely.”
- Behavioral Observations: He was described as “extremely alert and talkative” yet struggled with persistent hiccups throughout the encounter.
- Field Sobriety Test: Woods reportedly limped and “stumbled to the right” during physical exercises.
Medical Context and History
Woods attributed his poor physical performance during the sobriety tests to a grueling medical history, citing seven back surgeries and more than 20 operations on his legs. A compression sock was visible on his right knee at the scene.
However, the arresting officer concluded that Woods’ “normal faculties were impaired,” rendering him unable to safely operate a motor vehicle.
Legal Status and Precedent
Woods was transported to Martin County jail, where he was processed and his mugshot was released to the public. He was released the same day after posting bond.
This arrest marks the latest in a series of vehicular incidents involving the 15-time major champion. Woods was previously involved in a high-profile single-car crash in Los Angeles in 2021, which resulted in near-career-ending leg injuries, and a separate 2009 incident near his Florida residence.
Representatives for Woods have not yet issued a formal statement regarding the pending DUI charges.
