Panthers' Cam Newton injured in car crash

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (KABC) -- Panthers quarterback Cam Newton was injured in a car accident in Charlotte on Tuesday, police said.

The crash happened around 12:30 p.m. local time on South Church Street, about one block from the Panthers stadium.

Police say the 25-year-old football star and the driver of the other vehicle were taken to a hospital with non-life threatening injuries. According to a tweet by the Panthers, Newton suffered fractures to his lower back. The team said in an earlier tweet that Newton was listed in fair condition at the hospital.

Newton will not need surgery, according to team spokesman Charlie Dayton. He is expected to be released from the hospital on Wednesday after undergoing tests.

It was unclear if Newton would be able to practice or play Sunday against the Buccaneers, Dayton said.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

A black pickup truck that Charlotte-Mecklenburg police spokesman Robert Tufano said Newton was driving was overturned on the roadway with debris scattered all over the street. The roof was caved in and a tow truck later was hauling it away. Another car that appeared to be involved in the crash had front end damage.

Newton has 2,800 yards passing this season with 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He also has rushed for 425 yards and 3 touchdowns to lead the Panthers to a 4-8-1 record.

Newton was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft and was inserted in as the franchise's starter right away. He has only missed one game this season, the opener at Tampa Bay, due to a Newton has one year left on his rookie contract after the Panthers picked up a $15 million option for 2015.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.