By Crash News Writer 
Cass Township, PA (July 3, 2026) – A Pennsylvania State Police trooper was killed Wednesday morning after being struck by a commercial vehicle while conducting a commercial vehicle safety inspection along Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, the crash occurred on July 2 on Interstate 81 in Cass Township. Trooper Michael Pahira Jr., 44, was performing a commercial vehicle safety inspection when he was struck by a passing commercial vehicle. Following the initial impact, the commercial vehicle collided with the truck that was being inspected, causing it to catch fire.
Trooper Pahira was critically injured and transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The driver of the commercial vehicle, identified by court records as 33 year old Michael Bon, was also transported to a hospital for treatment.
Authorities said Bon has been charged with homicide, involuntary manslaughter, and other related offenses in connection with the incident. Trooper Pahira served with the Pennsylvania State Police for nearly 20 years and was assigned to Troop L in Frackville. The investigation into the fatal crash remains ongoing.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on preliminary information released by law enforcement and court filings. Additional facts may become available as investigators continue their work. Readers can learn more by reviewing the frequently asked questions in Pennsylvania page.
Criminal charges are allegations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Further information regarding the investigation, court proceedings, and any additional findings may be released by authorities as they become available. Those seeking assistance may also review accident resources in Pennsylvania.
The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports available at the time of publication, and details may change as the investigation progresses. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know have been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this information. Learn more with our disclaimer.
If your family has lost a loved one in a fatal commercial vehicle crash, contact an experienced Pennsylvania personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and available options.