Published May 14. 2015 12:00AM
State Sen. Pat Browne, R-16th, has issued a statement regarding the May 2 motorcycle accident when he crashed his 2011 Harley-Davidson around 4:33 p.m. on the I-78 off-ramp to Lehigh Street, Allentown.
State Police Troop M Fogelsville, say Browne, 51, of Allentown, was westbound on I-78 when he entered the curve in the off-ramp and apparently lost control of his motorcycle, causing it to fall on its side.
"I sincerely apologize to my family, colleagues and constituents for the choices that I made last Saturday [May 2] and I am extremely grateful that no one else was hurt," Browne said. "I am deeply passionate about my legislative work and humbled to represent the 16th Senatorial District.
"Thank you to the many individuals who have reached out to me since my motorcycle accident last Saturday. I have received outstanding medical care for my physical injuries from the accident and I am currently recuperating in an area physical therapy facility.
"It is no secret I have battled issues relating to alcohol in the past. Every day requires me to vigilantly control my disease, and I am dedicated to seeking help to regain a solid grasp of my illness."
On May 8, state police issued an update: "A laboratory report was received which indicated Browne's blood alcohol concentration was above the legal limit."
Charges were filed with Magisterial District Judge David M. Howells.
Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati, R-25th, and Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman, R-34th, issued a statement:
"Pat Browne is an important part of our leadership team and we are confident that he will be back to Harrisburg as soon as he has recovered...
"We offer our prayers for Pat as he works to recuperate."