HARRISBURG, PA – Pennsylvania State Trooper Michael J. Brown has been convicted of vehicular homicide following a collision that resulted in the death of 47-year-old Christine Woodward.
The verdict was delivered by a Tioga County jury on Friday afternoon after a week-long trial.
The fatal incident, which occurred on February 11, 2023, involved Brown attempting to pass another vehicle illegally on Route 6 in Sullivan Township, Tioga County. According to court testimony, Brown, who was off-duty and en route to work, crossed double yellow lines and collided with an oncoming vehicle that Woodward was driving.
Woodward, a mother and devoted teacher, was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash was described by Attorney General Michelle Henry as a “completely preventable” tragedy, emphasizing the reckless disregard for safety displayed by the defendant.
In addition to vehicular homicide, a Columbia County Senior Judge also found Brown guilty of summary traffic violations. Brown remains free on bail pending sentencing. The case has highlighted significant concerns over road safety and law enforcement conduct while off duty.
