Former city mayor charged with leaving accident scene

Jan. 30--JOHNSTOWN -- Former Johnstown Mayor Thomas Trigona faces a criminal charge after being accused of leaving an accident scene without notifying authorities.

West Hills Regional Police charged Trigona, 67, in connection with a crash in Lower Yoder Township at 2:15 p.m.Dec. 13.

Police said that Trigona backed a vehicle into another vehicle on Lyter Drive. Trigona gave the other driver no information other than a business card identifying him as mayor of Johnstown, police said.

The other driver told police that Trigona advised him to call his office to have the matter "taken care of."

Trigona then drove away, police said.

The other driver said he tried to call the telephone number on the card numerous times but received no response.

The man said he finally was able to trace Trigona's insurance company but was told Trigona had not filed a claim.

Police said they left a message with Trigona's wife on Jan. 16, but he failed to respond. Charges were filed Tuesday.

Trigona, of the 200 block of Harshberger Road, was charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving damage to attended vehicle or property, a misdemeanor, and failing to give information and render aid, a summary offense.

Trigona served as mayor from September 2006 until early this year.

He did not return a telephone call requesting comment.

A preliminary hearing for Trigona is scheduled for Feb. 24 before District Judge Mary Ann Zanghi of Vinco.

Patrick Buchnowski is a reporter with The Tribune-Democrat. Follow him on twitter.com/PatBuchnowskiTD.

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