U.S. Commerce Secretary may face felony charges

The U.S. Commerce Secretary was cited for felony hit-and-run after two Los Angeles-area traffic crashes that left him injured and unconscious, said police on Monday.

The Commerce Department said John Bryson (68) suffered a seizure in connection with Saturday's accidents and has returned to Washington after being released from a hospital.

Mr. Bryson could face felony hit-and-run charges, Police said. “We did cite him for felony hit-and-run.” “Later the case [will be] submitted to the DA's office, which will make a determination on what they are going to charge him with.”

The Secretary was driving alone in a Lexus on a major street in San Gabriel when he allegedly struck the rear end of a vehicle that had stopped for a passing train.

Mr. Bryson then allegedly struck a nearby car minutes later, the police said.

Mr. Bryson was found alone and unconscious in his car and was treated at the scene before being taken to a hospital.

There was no immediate indication that alcohol or drugs played a role, the departments said. Lt. Duran said authorities don't know if Mr. Bryson had a prior medical condition.

“When the first officer rolled up on the scene, he was behind his wheel unconscious,” Lt. Duran said. “But our officer did speak with him at the hospital.”

David Axelrod, senior adviser to President Barack Obama, said on CBS's “This Morning” that he doesn't have any details.

“This news broke overnight, so I don't have anything to contribute to that,” he said.

Two people in the first collision were treated by paramedics after complaining of pain, the officials said. The couple involved in the second crash also complained of pain but declined medical aid. Damage to the vehicles was minor.