Patrick Kennedy crashes his car near Capitol Hill

Washington, May 5 (UNI) Patrick Kennedy, a Democrat and son of Senator Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts, yesterday crashed his car into a barricade on Capitol Hill.

According to news reports, the accident occurred around 0300 hrs yesterday. However, Mr Kennedy escaped unhurt.

''I was involved in a traffic incident last night at First and C Street SE near the US Capitol," Rep Kennedy, 39, the Congressman who represents Rhode Island said in a news release.

''I consumed no alcohol prior to the incident and will fully cooperate with the Capitol Police in whatever investigation they choose to undertake.'' The elder Kennedy, a fellow Democrat, said he had no immediate comment.

According to CNN and Fox news, Capitol Hill Police witnessed the accident, and they reported that Mr Kennedy was the only one in the car, which was badly damaged.

A statement on the police Web site says, ''The United States Capitol Police are investigating a traffic violation that occurred in the early morning hours in the 100 Block of C Street, SE.'' They did not identify who was involved or provide other details.

The officials said officers at the scene reportedly saw the car swerve before the crash and said Mr Kennedy appeared intoxicated.

After the accident, the police gave a ride home to him. There was no indication from the sources that a sobriety test was performed or that an arrest made.

Sean Richardson, Kennedy's chief of staff, confirmed there was an accident involving a vehicle overnight, and said no alcohol was involved.

Rep Kennedy, the son of Sen Edward M. Kennedy, D-Mass, and his staff declined to discuss any further details of the accident. The congressman took part in House votes yesterday. Mr Kennedy spent time at a drug rehabilitation clinic before he went to Providence College.

He has been open about mental health issues, including being diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

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