Angels Announcer 'Lucky to Be Alive' After Terrifying Hit-and-Run

Terry Smith discusses 'harrowing experience' after being rear-ended in Phoenix during spring training

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Los Angeles Angels radio announcer Terry Smith was involved in a terrifying hit-and-run collision in Phoenix during spring training, where another vehicle traveling at around 90 mph rear-ended him. Fortunately, Smith only suffered a thumb injury, with the first police officer on the scene telling him he was 'lucky to be alive'. Smith discussed the 'harrowing experience' during his first radio broadcast back on Wednesday.

Why it matters

As a longtime and beloved voice of the Angels, Smith's well-being is of great importance to the team and its fanbase. The incident highlights the dangers that sports broadcasters can face while on the job, even during routine travel, and the importance of safety measures to protect them.

The details

According to reports, Smith was rear-ended by another vehicle traveling at around 90 mph, leaving his car destroyed. The driver of the other vehicle fled the scene and is being pursued by police. Despite the severity of the crash, Smith only suffered a thumb injury and was able to return to the broadcast booth just a few days later.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday during Angels spring training in Phoenix.
  • Smith returned to the air for the Angels' broadcast on Wednesday.

The players

Terry Smith

The longtime radio announcer for the Los Angeles Angels, who has been the voice of the team since 2002.

Los Angeles Angels

The Major League Baseball team based in Anaheim, California.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I feel extremely fortunate to be on the air with you. This was a harrowing experience for me and my family, but I am ready to go and give it a test today. A lot of things have happened to me and my family over the last 72 hours and I'm extremely happy to be with you for today's broadcast.”

— Terry Smith, Angels Radio Announcer (Orange County Register)

What’s next

Police are continuing to pursue the driver who fled the scene of the hit-and-run incident involving Terry Smith.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks that sports broadcasters can face, even during routine travel, and the importance of prioritizing their safety. Smith's resilience and quick return to the broadcast booth is a testament to his professionalism and the support of the Angels organization.