DOWNTOWN PITTSFIELD - The death of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Max Baer, months before his retirement, was confirmed by the court on Saturday. He was 74. According to a news release issued by the court, Baer passed away in his sleep at his home in the Pittsburgh area. Without specifying what caused his death, the court lamented its "tremendous loss for the court and all of Pennsylvania." Source According to the court, Justice Debra Todd has been on the bench longer than any other justice, making her the new chief justice. A court spokesperson has confirmed that she is the first female chief justice in the history of the commonwealth. In a press release, Todd praised Baer, saying, "Chief Justice Baer was an influential and intellectual jurist whose unwavering focus was on administering fair and balanced justice." He worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of our nation's youngest and neediest citizens. After the passing of a ...