SANTA CLARA, Calif. (ABC) — North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory sustained minor injuries after the vehicle he was riding in was rear-ended shortly after the Carolina Panthers’ Super Bowl loss.

California Highway Patrol Officer Ross Lee said the vehicle was traveling on State Route 237 around 8 p.m. Sunday after leaving Levi’s Stadium when it was hit from behind by a Mercedes.

McCrory’s press secretary says the car the governor was riding in was totaled.

The governor’s office said in a statement McCrory experienced “minor pain” but was able to continue to his destination in another vehicle.

Lee said McCrory declined treatment.

“We were very fortunate, and while I am still proud of the Carolina Panthers, this puts the game in proper perspective,” said McCrory. “I want to thank the California Highway Patrol and EMS for their professionalism and quick action.”

After the 24-10 loss to the Denver Broncos, McCrory issued a statement congratulating Panthers Coach Ron Rivera and the team for making it to the championship and for “putting North Carolina in the national spotlight.”

“I want to first congratulate Coach Ron Rivera and his team for getting the Panthers to the Super Bowl as NFC champs and putting North Carolina in the national spotlight. This was definitely a remarkable a season for our hometown team,” he said. “With that said, congratulations to the Denver Broncos on winning Super Bowl 50. I truly believe this was a contest between the two best teams in the NFL.”