Early Sunday morning, Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Alameda Ta'amu was arrested for extracurricular activities that included his driving a 2006 Lincoln Navigator the wrong way on Fort Pitt Boulevard and running a red light after he crossed the Smithfield Street bridge in Pittsburgh.
According to a report obtained by WXPI, Police witnessed Ta'amu not only driving towards opposing traffic, but also passing several vehicles on the road while on East Carson Street. An officer allegedly warned Ta'amu to stop his vehicle but the Steelers player swerved toward the officer, nearly hitting him. On South 14th Street, Ta'amu rammed several vehicles in an attempt to elude police. A female driver in one of those cars was injured.
Ta'amu hit a fifth vehicle, totaling both, then exited and evaded police on foot. The allegations are that Ta'amu was driving while impaired by alcohol. His blood alcohol test following his arrest revealed a content of .196 percent, more than twice the legal limit.
Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert issued a blanket statement to the press. "We are disappointed to hear about the situation regarding Alameda Ta’amu," Colbert said. "We will gather more facts before providing any further comment."
Ta'amu was selected in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL draft out of the University of Washington (109th pick). Ta'amu has been inactive for all games leading up to the incident, listed on the roster behind Casey Hampton and Steve McLendon.
The charges against the rookie nose tackle include: felony fleeing police, aggravated assault and aggravated assault via vehicle, misdemeanor accident causing damage, resisting arrest, escape and DUI.
After posting $25,000 bail, Ta'amu hid his face from cameras as he exited the Allegheny County Jail.
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