Defensive lineman Ray McDonald was clocked driving 94 mph Saturday before being pulled over by the California High Patrol and eventually arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
McDonald, 25, a backup defensive end for the 49ers, apologized Monday for being a distraction.
"My intent is just to come out here and work hard and try to win ballgames this year," said McDonald, who declined to take questions about the incident.
"And I don't want this to be a distraction for the fans, my family, my teammates."
McDonald is the second professional athlete in Northern California in recent weeks to be pulled over after being observed traveling at a high rate of speed.
On May 31, Kings guard and NBA Rookie of the Year Tyreke Evans was observed driving his Mercedes at 130 mph, according to the CHP, on Interstate 80. Evans was cited for reckless driving. There were no drugs or alcohol involved.
According to the CHP, McDonald's BMW was traveling 94 mph on southbound Interstate 280 in San Mateo County at around 6 p.m. Saturday. McDonald was pulled over, at which point the patrol officer noticed the odor of alcohol coming from the car, CHP officer Art Montiel said. McDonald was alone in the car.
McDonald was asked to exit his vehicle and was given a field sobriety test. It's not known whether McDonald was given a breath or blood test, Montiel said. However, he was arrested on suspicion of DUI at 6:15 p.m.
Lt. Ray Lunny of the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office said McDonald was booked into the county jail at around 8 p.m. and released on his own recognizance at around 9:30 p.m. McDonald has a July court date.
According to the 49ers, McDonald told the team what happened immediately after his arrest.
"We take these issues very seriously, but will reserve further comment at this time, as this is an ongoing legal matter," the team said in a statement. "The 49ers will continue to gather the facts and monitor the developments closely."
McDonald took part in Monday's team practice. Coach Mike Singletary was not available for comment.
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