Son of L.A. Lobbyist Arrested After Allegedly Injuring Father While Intoxicated

On September 19, a troubling incident occurred involving Jack Modrzejewski, the son of a well-known Los Angeles lobbyist. Authorities reported that he was arrested after allegedly striking his father, Chris Modrzejewski, with a Ford Bronco while intoxicated. This accident left Chris severely injured on a Pasadena street.

Incident Details

Pasadena Police responded to a disturbance on Mooresque Drive around 12:31 a.m., according to Lieutenant Monica Cuellar. The 24-year-old suspect attempted to drive away while heavily intoxicated. His father, Chris Modrzejewski, stood in front of the vehicle to stop him from leaving. Jack accelerated, knocking his father onto the hood before he fell onto the roadway.

After speeding off, Jack collided with a city power pipe on Glen Oaks Boulevard. He ended up at a friend’s house on Linda Vista Avenue, where police apprehended him, reported Cuellar.

Victim’s Condition and Rescue Efforts

The accident resulted in major injuries to Chris’s left leg and pelvis. Pasadena Fire Department paramedics provided an emergency blood transfusion on-site, which city spokesperson Lisa Derderian said likely saved his life. This was the first use of the city’s new program allowing for immediate blood transfusions at emergency scenes. Research points out each minute’s delay in transfusion can raise mortality by 2%.

Chris Modrzejewski is receiving treatment at Huntington Hospital, though details on his current condition remain unavailable.

Legal Proceedings

Jack Modrzejewski faces charges of assault with a deadly weapon, DUI, and hit and run causing injury. He was released on bail on September 20, as per information from the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department. The L.A. County district attorney’s office is reviewing the case for further charges.

Background of Involved Parties

Jack is employed by LA28, working on government relations for the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games. Chris Modrzejewski has a notable career in L.A. City Hall, engaging in high-profile campaigns like the Banc of California Stadium deal. His firm, M Strategic Communications, represents various clients, including Lineage following a fire in Boyle Heights.

The new blood transfusion program, approved by the City Council in August, is intended to reduce preventable deaths from severe bleeding, highlighted Pasadena Fire Chief Chad Augustin.