Newly released police video footage has provided a dramatic visual account of former WWE CEO Vince McMahon's high-speed car crash in Connecticut last summer. The footage reveals that a state trooper was actively attempting to catch up to McMahon's vehicle to initiate a traffic stop at the precise moment the collision occurred.
Details of the High-Speed Incident
McMahon, now 80 years old, was operating his 2024 Bentley Continental GT on the Merritt Parkway in Westport on July 24. Coincidentally, this date also marked the passing of WWE legend Hulk Hogan from a heart attack in Florida. State police authorities confirmed that the luxury Bentley, valued at over $300,000, was traveling at speeds exceeding 100 mph (160 kph).
Police Interaction and McMahon's Explanation
According to police bodycam recordings, State Police Detective Maxwell Robins questioned McMahon about his excessive speed following the crash. McMahon responded by stating, "I got my granddaughter's birthday," explaining that he was en route to visit her for the celebration.
Dashcam footage from Detective Robins' vehicle captures McMahon driving northbound in the right lane. As he approaches a BMW traveling in the same lane, McMahon appears to brake suddenly before swerving into the left lane at the last possible moment. The Bentley clipped the rear of the BMW before colliding with the left lane guardrail and careening back onto the highway, creating a substantial cloud of dirt and vehicle debris. McMahon subsequently brought his vehicle to a stop on the right shoulder.
Aftermath and Legal Proceedings
Fortunately, no serious injuries resulted from the collision. Police reported damage to the rear of the BMW, while a third vehicle traveling in the opposite direction was struck by flying debris. Interestingly, the driver of this third car happened to be wearing a WWE-branded shirt at the time of the incident.
McMahon received citations for reckless driving and following too closely. In October, a state judge permitted McMahon to enter a pretrial probation program. Successful completion of this program by next October will result in the charges being expunged from his record. The court also mandated a $1,000 charitable contribution from McMahon.
Police Perspective and McMahon's Response
State police clarified that Detective Robins was attempting to catch up to McMahon's vehicle to clock his speed before initiating a traffic stop. Authorities emphasized this was not considered a pursuit, which typically involves a driver attempting to evade police officers. They noted no evidence suggesting McMahon was trying to escape the trooper.
The police video captures Robins informing McMahon about his efforts to intercept him. "I'm trying to catch up to you and you keep taking off," Robins states. McMahon responds, "No, no no. I'm not trying to outrun you."
Additional Revelations from the Footage
Body camera recordings document troopers' interactions with McMahon alongside the highway. Robins questions why McMahon didn't change lanes sooner to avoid the collision and inquires whether he was distracted by his phone. McMahon denies phone usage and mentions he hadn't driven his vehicle for an extended period.
The footage shows McMahon providing his car registration to Robins while cursing at himself. When Robins comments on the vehicle's speed, McMahon acknowledges, "Yeah, too (expletive) fast." The videos also capture McMahon conversing with Barbara Doran of New York City, whose vehicle he rear-ended. Doran previously told The Associated Press that McMahon expressed genuine concern for her wellbeing and was relieved she wasn't injured. She was traveling to catch a ferry to Martha's Vineyard when the crash occurred.
Legal Representation and Broader Context
Following the issuance of the traffic summons, McMahon shook hands with Robins and another trooper, who wished him well. McMahon's attorney, Mark Sherman, characterized the incident as an unfortunate accident rather than a criminal act.
"Not every car accident is a crime," Sherman stated. "Vince's primary concern during this case was for the other drivers and is appreciative that the court saw this more of an accident than a crime that needed to be prosecuted."
McMahon's Recent History
McMahon resigned as WWE's CEO in 2022 amid a company investigation into sexual misconduct allegations. He further stepped down as executive chairman of TKO Group Holdings' board of directors in 2024, following a sexual abuse lawsuit filed by a former WWE employee. McMahon has consistently denied these allegations, and the lawsuit remains pending.
McMahon originally purchased what was then the World Wrestling Federation in 1982, transforming it from a regional wrestling promotion into a global entertainment phenomenon. Beyond corporate leadership, McMahon frequently performed as himself at WWE events. His wife, Linda McMahon, currently serves as the U.S. Education Secretary.
The Associated Press obtained the police videos through a public records request this Wednesday, while The Sun newspaper initially acquired the footage. Notably, the original accident information summary provided to media outlets shortly after the crash omitted any mention of a trooper following McMahon's vehicle.
