Hydrocodone pills were discovered in Tiger Woods’ pocket following his recent car accident, as revealed in newly released police documents. Despite this, tests confirmed that no alcohol was present in his bloodstream.
The 15-time major champion has pleaded not guilty to DUI charges and has requested a jury trial. This development adds complexity to the case, as the presence of prescription opioids contrasts with the absence of alcohol.
A probable cause affidavit detailed that officers found two pills marked M367, identified as hydrocodone, a prescription opioid commonly used for pain management. Woods informed the officers that he had taken prescribed medication earlier that day.
Although a breathalyzer test recorded a blood alcohol content of 0.000, officers noted several signs of impairment. Woods was observed sweating profusely, moving slowly, and speaking in a lethargic manner. His eyes were described as bloodshot and glassy, with pupils that were extremely dilated.
During a field sobriety test, Woods stumbled, but he explained that he had undergone multiple surgeries on his back and legs. Based on these observations, the police concluded that he was not fit to operate a vehicle safely and subsequently arrested him.
The crash occurred on a Friday afternoon when Woods’ vehicle collided with a trailer attached to a slower-moving truck and then overturned. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Woods admitted to police that he had been distracted by looking at his phone and adjusting the radio, which caused him not to notice the vehicle ahead slowing down.
He faces charges of DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test after declining to provide a urine sample. Woods was transported to a hospital but refused treatment before being returned to jail. He was released on $1,500 bail, with his arraignment scheduled for later this month.
Woods has a history of incidents involving prescribed medication, notably a 2017 traffic stop where he appeared disoriented, which he attributed to medication effects. This latest case has reignited scrutiny over his medication use, particularly given the presence of hydrocodone but no alcohol in his system.
What remains uncertain is the precise cause of the crash, as investigations continue to explore all contributing factors.
