Shadow of Doubt on San Diego Prius Grows Darker

Remember last week when we pondered if James Sikes was the victim that he portrayed himself to be? Car blogs weren’t the only ones wondering. Federal regulators have been investigating Mr. Sikes’ Prius and have been unable to reproduce the now-infamous unintended acceleration that Mr. Sikes reported as he barrelled down a San Diego freeway at speeds over 90 mph.

A memo from the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform reads: “In this case, knowing that we are able to push the car around the shop, it does not appear to be feasibly possible, both electronically and mechanically, that his gas pedal was stuck to the floor and he was slamming on the brake at the same time.”

The California Highway Patrol, who assisted Mr. Sikes in the incident, remain in his corner until something proves otherwise. The officer who arrived at the scene also reports that he smelled burning brakes. We’ll keep you updated as this one develops. [via WCF]