Commerce Secretary John Bryson Takes Leave Of Absence Following Car Accidents

Commerce Secretary John Bryson is taking an immediate leave of accident following three car accidents in which he was cited for felony hit-and-run.

According to Commerce officials Bryson suffered from a seizure and was not aware of his action following several hit-and-run accidents.

Bryson said of his decision:

“I notified President Obama that effective immediately I am taking a medical leave of absence so I can focus all of my attention on resolving the health issues that arose over the weekend.”

Filling in for the Commerce Secretary will be his second in command Rebecca Blank.

The White House released a short statement about John Bryson’s decision, noting:

“President Obama’s thoughts are with Secretary Bryson and his family during this time.”

During his three accidents Bryson rear-ended a vehicle and exchanged insurance information only to hit the car again as he drove away, he then rear-ended a second vehicle and fled the scene. Police found Bryson unconscious behind the wheel following the third accident and cited him for felony hit-and-run.

Police administered a breathalyzer at the scene and took a sample of Bryson’s blood.

Police at the time claimed the hit-and-run accidents were intentional, however a law enforcement spokesman has now revealed that the Commerce Secretary will not be charged in those accidents.

The White House in the meantime has tried to make it very clear that they are not yet blaming the accidents on the alleged seizure.

It is not yet known how long Bryson plans to remain out of public office.