Golf legend Tiger Woods, 50, was arrested and charged with DUI, property damage, and refusal to submit to a lawful test following a high-speed rollover accident on Friday afternoon.
The incident occurred shortly before 2:00 p.m. on South Beach Road in Jupiter Island, near Woods’ primary residence. Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek confirmed the charges during a press conference, stating that while the crash resulted in no injuries, the circumstances suggest significant impairment.
According to sheriff’s reports, Woods was operating his Land Rover at a high rate of speed when he attempted to pass a pickup truck towing a pressure-cleaning trailer. The driver of the truck attempted to pull over to avoid a collision, but Woods allegedly clipped the rear of the trailer.
The impact caused the Land Rover to flip onto the driver’s side and slide a considerable distance down the roadway. Sheriff Budensiek noted that while the exact speed is still under investigation, the 30-mph zone was clearly exceeded. “The distance he slid and the impact speak for themselves,” Budensiek said.
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Upon exiting the vehicle, Woods appeared “lethargic” and showed clear signs of impairment, according to responding officers. Investigators found no alcohol or drugs inside the vehicle, and Woods subsequently recorded a “triple zero” (0.000) on a Breathalyzer test.
However, Woods allegedly refused to undergo a urinalysis. Authorities believe the impairment was not caused by alcohol but potentially by medication or other substances. During the investigation, Woods reportedly discussed his history of surgeries and physical injuries with deputies.
Woods was booked into the Martin County Jail on Friday evening. Sheriff Budensiek emphasized that the high-profile athlete would not receive “preferential treatment,” though he is being held outside the general population for his own safety.
“We know we arrested a high-profile figure, but the law applies the same to everyone,” Budensiek stated.
This arrest marks the latest in a string of vehicular incidents involving the 15-time major champion:
- 2021: A serious rollover crash in Los Angeles County resulted in major leg surgeries; no charges were filed.
- 2017: A DUI charge in Florida led to a guilty plea for reckless driving.
- 2009: A crash outside his then-home in Windermere, Florida, resulted in a careless driving citation.
The Martin County State Attorney’s Office is expected to review the evidence for formal prosecution.
