Panthers QB Newton released from hospital after car crash

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton was released from the hospital Wednesday and will not be charged in connection with the two-vehicle crash.

Newton spent one night in the hospital after suffering two transverse process fractures in his lower back and no further internal injuries in Tuesday’s accident. He was released from Carolinas Medical Center around 11:15 a.m., a team spokesperson said.

The Panthers said the Newton is experiencing soreness but is in good spirits, according to his family. Newton’s mother and father were at the hospital with him.

Newton is unlikely to play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to reports. The Panthers said Newton’s health will be treated on a day-to-day basis.

According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, the accident occurred at 12:30 p.m. ET. Tuesday. One eyewitness saw Newton’s vehicle flip “two or three times.”

According to a Wednesday police report, no one was charged in the incident.

In the report, police named the other driver involved in the crash as Nestor Pellot Jr., 46. Pellot Jr., driving a 2013 Buick, told police he didn’t see Newton’s 1998 Dodge truck approaching on South Church Street, and as he began crossing Church Street he collided with Newton’s truck, the report states.

Newton told police he was driving down South Church Street when the other vehicle pulled out in front of him and collided into his truck, the report states. Two witnesses corroborated the fact that the car pulled out in front of the Newton’s truck.

Speed doesn’t appear to be a factor. The report states the Buick was traveling approximately 20 mph, while Newton’s pickup was traveling about 35. The posted speed limit is 35.

Dave Gettleman, the Carolina Panthers’ general manager, told USA Today on Tuesday night:

“God bless the fact that he was wearing a seat belt. I’m just thankful that it wasn’t any worse.”

The 25-year-old Newton has passed for 2,800 yards this season with 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions for the Panthers (4-8-1). He has an additional 425 yards and three rushing touchdowns.

Last Sunday in the Panthers’ 41-10 win over the New Orleans Saints, Newton threw three touchdown passes.

If Newton is unable to return for Sunday’s game, veteran backup Derek Anderson likely would be the replacement. He started the season-opening 20-14 win over the Bucs that Newton missed while recovering from broken ribs.