PA state trooper killed after being struck on I-81, police say

A Pennsylvania state trooper was killed after being struck on Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County on Wednesday, according to police. Video above: Smoke billows from deadly crash on I-81. Officials said the trooper was conducting a safety inspection on a commercial vehicle when a passing commercial vehicle struck the trooper and then crashed into the vehicle being inspected. It happened in the southbound lanes in Cass Township near Exit 119, Highridge Park Road, around 7 a.m. The striking vehicle went up in flames. Black smoke could be seen billowing from the incident. Police said the trooper died in the crash. Their identity has not yet been released. The driver of the striking vehicle was transported to the hospital. The extent of their injuries is unknown. "Our FOP extends its heartfelt condolences and prayers to the members' family and all of our brothers and sisters who remain to carry out the duties of the Pennsylvania State Police," the Fraternal Order of Police said. Video below: Black smoke engulfs scene on I-81 I-81 remains closed All lanes of Interstate 81 southbound remain closed between Exit 124, St. Clair/Route 61, and Exit 119, Highridge Park Road. It's unclear when the road will reopen. A large presence of emergency crews remains at the scene. WGAL is working to learn more. Stay with us for updates. See news happening? Send us your photos or videos if it’s safe to do so at https://www.wgal.com/upload.