Miami Heat forward Haywood Highsmith was involved in a car accident after Tuesday night's game, reportedly resulting in a man having part of his leg amputated.
Initial reports said Highsmith crashed while returning home from a game against the Orlando Magic, according to a senior police official who spoke with local reporters. Andy Slater. Slater said the victim had stopped to help a stranded driver in the middle of the road when Highsmith allegedly rear-ended him. The unidentified male victim reportedly had part of his leg amputated and remains in hospital in critical condition.
BOSTON, MA – MAY 29: Boston Celtics #0 Jayson Tatum during the second quarter of Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals at TD Garden in Boston on May 29, 2023. , Massachusetts, goes to the basket against Haywood Highsmith #24 of the Miami Heat. Note to User: You expressly acknowledge and agree that by downloading or using this photo, you are agreeing to the terms of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
The circumstances of the incident are currently under investigation, but it is not yet clear whether charges will be filed.
According to reports, Highsmith, 27, has decided to sit out Wednesday's game against the San Antonio Spurs due to “personal reasons.” TMZ. It is unclear whether Mr. Highsmith suffered any injuries in connection with the incident.
The ages and identities of the people in the other vehicle that broke down have not been released at this time. It is unclear whether their car was affected by the impact.
Highsmith, an undrafted free agent out of Wheeling University in 2018, played three minutes in Tuesday's 121-95 victory over the Orlando Magic.
According to TMZ, the Miami Heat released a statement regarding the tragedy, saying, “Our hearts go out to those injured.” (Related: 'Deliverance' actor Herbert Coward dies in car accident)
The situation continues to develop.
