Mary Lou Retton Seen Struggling During Sobriety Test in Police Footage as Mugshots Released After DUI Arrest

Bodycam footage has emerged showing Olympic gold medalist Mary Lou Retton in a visibly distressed state during her May 17 arrest in Marion County, West Virginia. The video, captured by the Fairmont City Police Department, reveals the former gymnastics icon attempting to perform a roadside sobriety test following a charge of driving under the influence.

Retton, 57, was found in her vehicle parked outside an AutoZone store, with a screw-top bottle of wine reportedly discovered in the passenger seat. Law enforcement had responded to reports of a possible intoxicated driver before encountering the decorated athlete.

In the video, Retton appears confused and anxious as the officer instructs her through a field sobriety test. She can be heard gasping, repeatedly saying, “Oh my God,” as she attempts to comply with the commands. Despite her efforts, she visibly struggles to lift her foot the required six inches off the ground and count steadily — a key component of the test.

She appears to lose track while counting, unable to continue beyond the number nine. At one point, Retton reaches for her portable oxygen device, tying the nasal tube in place while still trying to complete the test.

The Olympian's use of oxygen stems from a severe battle with pneumonia in 2023, which left her hospitalized for weeks. In a July 2024 interview, she revealed that doctors feared she might not survive the illness. “My lungs are so scarred. It will be a lifetime of recovery,” she said at the time. “My physicality was the only thing I had, and it was taken away from me. It’s embarrassing.”

A five-time Olympic medalist, Retton was once a national hero, capturing hearts around the world with her performance in the 1984 Summer Olympics, where she became the first American woman to win the all-around gold medal in gymnastics.

The release of her mugshots and bodycam footage has drawn significant public attention and renewed conversation around the mental and physical challenges faced by athletes after the spotlight fades.

Retton has not publicly commented on the arrest, and further legal proceedings are expected in connection with the DUI charge.