LAPD Chief Beck fractures pelvis in off-road motorcycle accident

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Los Angeles Police Department Chief Charlie Beck is recovering after suffering a fractured pelvis in an off-road motorcycle accident in the Tehachapi Mountains, the agency announced Sunday.

The incident occurred Saturday while Beck, an avid motorcyclist, was riding with friends and fell on a rocky trail, the LAPD said in a news release. The police chief was able to ride back to his truck, drive home and subsequently received emergency care at a hospital, the department said.

"I want to thank everyone for their well-wishes as I recuperate from my recent motorcycle mishhap," Beck said in a statement. "As always, I am in constant contact with my LAPD command staff and will be working diligently while I recuperate to continue leading the men and women of the LAPD."

According to the news release, the 63-year-old Beck's follow-up care may include surgery on Monday.

"Doctors say he is expected to have a full, speedy recovery and return to the office within the next week," the statement said.

The LAPD described Beck as a competitive off-road motorcycle rider for the past four decades.