Former Minnesota Viking Adrian Peterson was arrested early Friday on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. Around 3:20 a.m., a State Patrol trooper in Richfield noticed Peterson’s Audi Q5 speeding at 83 miles per hour in a 55 mph zone on Hwy. 77 near E. 66th Street.
The trooper conducted a breath test, and Peterson’s blood alcohol content was measured at 0.14%, nearly twice the legal limit in Minnesota. Peterson, who is 40 years old and originally from Palestine, Texas, was taken into custody and booked around 5:15 a.m. on a misdemeanor charge for driving while impaired.
Just the night before, Peterson had attended the Vikings draft party at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis and spoke on KFAN Radio, the team’s flagship station.
Peterson’s football career spanned over a decade, primarily with the Vikings from 2007 to 2016. He later played for other teams, wrapping up his career with a brief stint at the Seattle Seahawks in 2021. He is recognized for having rushed for 14,918 yards, making him the fifth highest in NFL history. His standout season was in 2012 when he amassed an impressive 2,097 rushing yards.
Driving under the influence is a serious issue across the U.S. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 10,000 people died in alcohol-related crashes in 2019, which is a staggering reminder of the dangers of drinking and driving. Public reactions to incidents like Peterson’s often include calls for stricter penalties for offenders, as well as increased awareness of the risks involved.
As discussions about celebrity behavior and accountability continue online and in the media, incidents like these highlight a broader concern about responsible behavior and the effects of fame. Peterson’s arrest serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the importance of safe driving practices.
For more information on alcohol impairment laws in Minnesota, visit the Minnesota Department of Public Safety here.