Bills game hit-and-run case in court

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (WIVB) - A young driver accused of triggering Sunday's chaotic scene and police chase after the Bills game in Orchard Park, faced a judge Monday.

"I just want to say myself there is no excuse for my actions," said Brandon McLean.

Brandon McLean, 19, was supposed to start a new job in collections Monday.

Instead, the Williamsville native stood before Orchard Park Town Justice Edward Pace for a bail hearing.

>> Read more about the arraignment here.

"The matter of bail, I want to straighten out my life more than anything," said McLean.

Brandon stands accused of 16 counts, including felony assault and reckless endangerment.

Investigators believe he was the drunk driver behind the wheel of a jeep, who was involved in a series of hit and run crashes after the Bills game that left six people injured.

Deputy Thomas Van Wie was directing traffic when he was struck.

Several others were also hit, or injured when they jumped out of the way.

Monday morning, prosecutors requested that bail be set at $100,000.

"Because of the severity of the charge. Certainly because of the strength of the charges and the actions, was why bail was set so high," said Assistant District Attorney Kelley Omel.

Brandon argued for a lower bail, offering some insight into his actions.

"I got married at 17. We separated a week ago, which is why I'm a wreck," said McLean.

In the end, the Judge set bail at $50,000.

Early Monday morning the most seriously injured pedestrians were released from the hospital. Police are breathing a sigh of relief, knowing it could have been worse.

"We're human beings and when you see a car strike three people and bodies flying through the air, it's a traumatic event, whether a veteran, a rookie or a citizen," said Orchard Park Assistant Police Chief Ted Gura.

The long legal road is now underway for the army veteran, who was visibly upset at the end of the hearing.

Brandon was hoping that bail would only be set at $500.

He remains behind bars at the Erie County Holding Center.

He's scheduled to return to court Tuesday, for a 4 p.m. arraignment.