Updated on July 2
PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A Pennsylvania State Trooper was struck and killed Wednesday in Schuylkill County.
Officials said Trooper Michael Pahira, a 20-year state police veteran, was conducting a vehicle safety inspection around 7 a.m. on the shoulder of Interstate 81 South with his emergency lights on when he was struck by 33-year-old Michael Bon’s truck as it veered off the roadway.
The result was a fiery crash that pinned Pahira under Bon’s truck and knocked the driver of the car Pahira was inspecting momentarily unconscious.
Police said three nearby construction workers sprang into action, pulling Pahira’s body from the wreckage and dragging him 30 yards away. The driver who was knocked unconscious exited his truck on his own.
Bon, of Massachusetts, now faces felony homicide and assault charges, as well as involuntary manslaughter and reckless endangerment misdemeanors. He’s due back in court in about two weeks.
"Today is a horrible reminder of the service and the sacrifice that they devote to this commonwealth every single day," said Gov. Josh Shapiro, who ordered flags lowered to half-staff in Pahira's honor.
A Massachusetts man is facing charges in connection with his death
A Massachusetts man is facing charges in connection with his death
