A Pennsylvania State Police trooper was killed Wednesday morning after being struck by a vehicle while conducting a routine traffic detail on Interstate 81 South in Schuylkill County.
In accordance with the United States Flag Code, Governor Josh Shapiro ordered all Commonwealth and United States flags on Commonwealth facilities, public buildings, and grounds across Pennsylvania to fly at half-staff immediately to honor Pennsylvania State Trooper Michael Pahira, who died in the line of duty in Schuylkill County.
The incident, which occurred around 7:00 AM on July 1, has triggered an outpouring of grief from the law enforcement community and caused an extended closure of a major transit artery through the region.
According to state police officials, PSP Trooper Pahira, who was assigned to the Troop L barracks in Frackville—was outside of their patrol unit conducting a commercial vehicle safety inspection along the shoulder of I-81 South in Cass Township when they were struck. The trooper succumbed to injuries at the scene.
The crash brought morning commuter traffic to a standstill, prompting emergency management to shut down all southbound lanes of Interstate 81 near the Ashland/Frackville exits.
Major traffic reconstruction units and state police investigators remain on the scene to determine exactly how the vehicle left the roadway to strike the trooper.
Pennsylvania State Troopers Association (PSTA) President Stephen Polishan today issued the following statement on the tragic loss of Trooper Michael Pahira.
“Pennsylvania State Trooper Michael Pahira went to work every day for two decades committed to protecting his fellow citizens.
“He was the personification of our Call of Honor, serving with integrity and distinction. Know this: Trooper Pahira was a hero, and we will spend the rest of our lives making sure he’s never forgotten.
“This tragedy affects so many. Please join the PSTA in saying a prayer for him, his family and friends.”
