House Ways and Means chairman in medically induced coma after motorcycle crash

A top Indiana lawmaker was in a medically induced coma Wednesday after being involved in a motorcycle accident in northern Michigan, his traveling companion told IBJ.

Tim Brown

Rep. Tim Brown, R-Crawfordsville, was riding a motorcycle Wednesday morning when an SUV pulled out in front of him and struck him, throwing him from the motorcycle.

Rep. Mike Speedy, R-Indianapolis, was riding near Brown but was able to avoid the vehicle and was not injured.

“It’s a classic scenario where a driver does not see a motorcyclist and pulls out in front of him,” Speedy said.

Speedy said Brown will be treated in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He said the accident occurred as they were trying to turn onto the Mackinac Bridge.

Brown, 62, has served as a representative since 1994 and is chair of the influential House Ways and Means Committee.

“Tim is an invaluable member of our leadership team, a dedicated public servant and one of my most cherished friends,” House Speaker Brian Bosma said in a written statement. “Our prayers are with him, his family and Rep. Speedy.”

Brown is a retired physician. He lives in Crawfordsville with his wife, Jane, and has four daughters. Indiana State Police said they were taking Brown's wife and one of his daughters to Michigan.

“Dr. Brown is a remarkable man and beloved public servant, and I am very sad to hear the news that he has been involved in an accident,” Senate President Pro Tem David Long said in a statement. “I hope Hoosiers will join me in offering thoughts and prayers of healing for Tim and strength for his family during this difficult time.”