McKeesport solicitor Elash charged with DUI after crash
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The McKeesport solicitor who was badly hurt in a car crash following the mayor's inaugural ball declined comment today after being charged Friday with driving under the influence in connection with the accident.
John Jason Elash, 40, also faces summary offenses of speeding and driving without financial responsibility in connection with the crash, which occurred Jan. 22.
A blood test showed Mr. Elash had a blood alcohol content of .196, more than twice the legal limit, at the time of the crash, according to a criminal complaint.
He said today that he had not received any notification of the charges and had no comment.
Chief Bryan Washowich said Mr. Elash, seen the night before at an inaugural ball for Mayor Mike Cherepko, was headed south on Route 48 in his 2004 Cadillac Escalade at around 1:30 a.m. when he "failed to negotiate the bend" in the 700 block.
He veered off the street, crashing into a building about 100 feet off of the roadway. A passerby called 911 after watching Mr. Elash drive into the building and told dispatchers that Mr. Elash was bleeding from the head. He was flown to UPMC Mercy.
He remained in the hospital until at least Jan. 23, according to an online docket entry that indicated he had to reschedule a court date for a private client in a federal suit.
Mr. Elash will be charged by mail summons.
First Published February 14, 2012 1:57 pm
