Pennsylvania State Trooper Killed After Being Struck on I-81 in Schuylkill County
A passing commercial truck struck the trooper during a roadside commercial-vehicle inspection, prompting an active state police investigation that has closed I-81 southbound.
Overview
- The trooper was struck while conducting a commercial vehicle safety inspection at Mile Marker 119 on I-81 southbound in Cass Township at about 7 a.m. on Wednesday.
- State police say a passing commercial vehicle hit the trooper, then collided with the vehicle being inspected; the striking vehicle caught fire and its driver was taken to a local hospital.
- The trooper was assigned to Troop L in Frackville and died at the scene; state police have not yet released the trooper's name and said it will be released later.
- All lanes of I-81 southbound between Exit 124 (St. Clair/Route 61) and Exit 119 (Highridge Park Road) remain closed while investigators and emergency crews work the scene.
- The crash highlights the risks of roadside enforcement work and officials say the ongoing investigation will determine cause and whether any charges will follow, with identity and further updates expected from state police.