State trooper killed in I-81 crash in Schuylkill Co; no confirmation from PSP

UPDATE: – Governor Josh Shapiro and Pennsylvania State Police Acting Commissioner Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens will deliver an update on the fatal crash in Schuylkill County that killed a Trooper from Troop L Frackville. ------- A Pennsylvania State Police trooper assigned to the Frackville barracks was killed Wednesday morning after being struck by a passing commercial vehicle while conducting a commercial vehicle inspection along Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County. According to Pennsylvania State Police, the trooper was performing a commercial vehicle safety inspection at about 7 a.m. on Interstate 81 south near mile marker 119 in Cass Township. Investigators said a passing commercial truck struck the trooper before colliding with the commercial vehicle that was being inspected. The striking vehicle then caught fire. The driver of the commercial truck was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Police did not immediately release information about the extent of the driver's injuries. The trooper died from injuries sustained in the crash. State police said the trooper's identity will be released at a later time. The crash forced the closure of Interstate 81 southbound as investigators processed the scene. The highway remained closed Wednesday afternoon. PA511 says the anticipated opening is now 3:30 p.m. The investigation into the fatal crash is ongoing, and no additional information has been released. Earlier this year, Corporal Timothy J. O'Connor Jr., 40, who was fatally shot during a traffic stop in Chester County on March 8, 2026. He became the 105th member of the Pennsylvania State Police to die in the line of duty.