North Carolina Gov. McCrory in minor crash after Super Bowl

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory sustained minor injuries after the vehicle he was riding in was rear-ended shortly after the Carolina Panthers’ Super Bowl loss.

California Highway Patrol Officer Ross Lee said the vehicle was travelling on State Route 237 around 8 p.m. Sunday after leaving Levi’s Stadium when it was hit from behind by a Mercedes.

McCrory’s press secretary says the car the governor was riding in was totalled.

The governor’s office said in a statement McCrory experienced “minor pain” but was able to continue to his destination in another vehicle.

Lee said McCrory declined treatment.

“We were very fortunate, and while I am still proud of the Carolina Panthers, this puts the game in proper perspective,” McCrory said in a statement issued early Monday. “I want to thank the California Highway Patrol and EMS for their professionalism and quick action.”

After the 24-10 loss to the Denver Broncos, McCrory issued a statement congratulating Panthers Coach Ron Rivera and the team for making it to the championship and for “putting North Carolina in the national spotlight.”