14 DAY TRIAL // Michael Phelps, eight-time gold medalist at the 2008 Olympics, was involved in a car crash in his hometown Baltimore a few hours ago. Details of the pile-up are a bit sketchy at the moment, with several reports saying that either two or three vehicles were involved. As of now, what is certain is that Phelps was not hurt in the crash and that alcohol was not a factor. Police are investigating what might have caused the accident.
CNN reports that Phelps was held for questioning and then sent home, although specifics about the interview have not been revealed to the media. Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi tells CNN that the woman in the vehicle that Phelps crashed into was taken to the hospital for a checkup after complaining of some mild pain. Guglielmi is also at liberty to state that Phelps was not under the influence at the time the crash occurred: a field sobriety test was not necessary because the swimmer did not show any signs of intoxication.
While CNN reports that only two cars were involved in the crash, Phelps’ black Cadillac Escalade and the woman’s vehicle, TMZ says there were actually three. According to the paparazzi agency, the Cadillac smashed into the other vehicle, and then both hit another car that was not moving at the time. Admittedly, TMZ says, the cause of the accident might have been someone running a stoplight, presumably Phelps, but that is yet to be determined by the ongoing police investigation.
“Phelps reportedly emerged from the wreck unscathed, but a woman in the other car was shaken up and taken to a local hospital. We’re told she complained of ‘head and arm pain.’ The accident occurred around 9pm local time. A police spokesman says the Olympic Gold Medal winner was driving a Cadillac Escalade, which collided with a Honda accord. One of the local papers is reporting that a passenger in Phelps’ car was also injured, but it’s unclear as to the extent of that person’s injuries. We’re told there is already a tow-truck on scene removing Phelps’ ride. We’re told Michael’s car received ‘heavy damage’.” TMZ informs.
At the moment, police cannot and will not disclose further details on the case, pending the end of the investigation. Stay tuned here for updates on this one.