Chad Wheeler apologizes to family claims he had a manic episode, and needs help

 Update 01/27/2021 10:10pm:

Prosecutors have formally charged Chad Wheeler with a single count for each of the following: first-degree domestic violence assault, domestic violence unlawful imprisonment, and resisting arrest. 

In court documents obtained by TMZ, prosecutors say: "The defendant, who is physically conditioned and trained to compete at the highest level of professional sports, strangled, suffocated and beat the victim into unconsciousness -- twice -- both times leaving her for dead as blood poured from her nose and mouth, and into her stomach and lungs."

The Ex-Seahawk is due back in court next month. 

---

Update 01/27/2021 6:07pm:

Former Seattle Seahawks lineman Chad Wheeler broke his silence on the domestic violence allegations he was arrested for this past weekend. The football player apologized for his actions on Twitter and expressed his shame while blaming the incident on a manic episode.

"Events happened over the weekend that transpired from a manic episode," Wheeler tweeted. "I am deeply sorry for the pain and suffering that I have caused to [the victim] and her family. I apologize profusely for the turmoil that I have caused to my family, teammates, fans and those closest to me. The most important thing right now is that [the victim] gets the care she needs and I get help. Both are happening."

Wheeler also revealed that he will be stepping away from football while he seeks help.

"It is time for me to walk away from football and get the help I need to never again pose a threat to another," he continued. "I cannot express my sorrow or remorse enough. I am truly ashamed."

While the Seahawks initially stated they were gathering information on the alleged assault, the sports franchise announced that they would not resign the offensive tackle and encouraged their former player to "get the help he needs."

"The Seahawks are saddened by the details emerging against Chad Wheeler and strongly condemn this act of domestic violence," the team said in a statement. "Our thoughts and support are with the victim. Chad is a free agent and no longer with the team."

Source: TMZ

---

Original 01/27/2021 1:51pm:

Seattle Seahawks offensive tackle Chad Wheeler was arrested in Kent, Washington, Saturday on suspicion of domestic violence.

According to the police report, the victim called 911 after locking herself in the bathroom and claimed she was being "killed" following a "physical fight" with her boyfriend. Cops were also alerted that she suffered a dislocated arm and was bleeding as a result of the alleged altercation.

Cops heard screaming when they arrived and forced their way into the bathroom, where they found Wheeler standing beside the victim after he allegedly picked the lock. Initially, Wheeler was uncooperative before being detained and the victim was transported to a hospital. The police report noted that Wheeler has a prescription to treat a bipolar disorder but he claimed he had not been taking it. 

The fight reportedly began after the victim refused to bow to Wheeler. After grabbing the victim and throwing her on the bed, Wheeler allegedly strangled her until she lost consciousness. When she regained consciousness, the report says Wheeler expressed shock in her still being alive. Afterward, the victim ran to the bathroom where she called 911 and family.

While commenting on the incident, the victim allegedly said, "What was most terrifying was how cold he was...He thought I was dead on my bed and continued to Eat dinner. When I ran into the bathroom,  he said, 'Wow, you're still alive' while sipping on a smoothie."

The Seahawks signed Wheeler in October 2019 after he was waived by the New York Giants. He went undrafted out of USC after a story revealed that he was involved in an altercation with a teammate and police in 2015. Wheeler was not arrested but was taken to a Los Angeles hospital for a psychiatric evaluation. The backup lineman is currently a restricted free agent.

The Seahawks released a statement that said, "We are aware of the situation and still gathering information."

Chad Wheeler's bail was set at $400,000 and he was released on Tuesday morning. He's been ordered not to have contact with the alleged victim and to surrender all weapons.

Source: The Seattle Times