Bodycam release sheds light on Tiger Woods suspected DUI crash

JUPITER ISLAND, Fla. (CBS12) — Newly released video on Thursday provides a clearer picture of the events that led to Tiger Woods’ suspected DUI arrest following a rollover crash on Jupiter Island.

The Martin County Sheriff’s Office released body-worn camera footage from deputies who responded to the March 27 crash on South Beach Road. Investigators say Woods attempted to pass a pickup truck towing a trailer, crossed over double solid lines, and struck the trailer, causing his SUV to flip onto its side.

According to a recently released probable cause affidavit, deputies reported multiple signs of impairment at the scene, including bloodshot and glassy eyes, dilated pupils, and lethargic movements. The affidavit states that two pills later identified as hydrocodone were found loose in Woods’ pants pocket during his arrest.

Woods told deputies he takes prescription medications and said he was looking down at his phone and adjusting the radio before the crash.

In the newly released bodycam video, Woods can be heard telling the MCSO deputy,

I looked down at my phone and all of a sudden…BOOM.”

Woods submitted to a breathalyzer test that showed no alcohol in his system but refused a urine test, leading to misdemeanor charges of driving under the influence with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.

See also: Timeline of Tiger Woods’ most consequential public moments; from controversy to comebacks

Legal experts say the bodycam footage could play an important role in the case, potentially showing Woods’ interaction with deputies, his physical condition at the scene, and how sobriety exercises were conducted.

Additional video from the back of a patrol vehicle shows Woods sitting in cuffs; he can be heard hiccupping occasionally.

The video release comes as Woods has been granted court permission to leave the United States to enter an overseas inpatient treatment program. A Martin County judge approved the request Wednesday, with prosecutors not opposing the motion.

In addition to over eight hours of law enforcement footage, also entered in Martin County court records was Woods’ traffic citation.

Woods was cited for reckless driving following a traffic stop in Martin County on March 27, according to a Florida Highway Patrol citation. The civil infraction, which does not require a court appearance if resolved within 30 days, carries a $163 fine.

Woods has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and the case remains pending.