PA Senate Leaders Issue Statement on Passing of Trooper Michael E. Pahira Jr.

HARRISBURG - Pennsylvania Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward (R-39), Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-41), Senate Transportation Committee Chair Judy Ward (R-30) and Senate Majority Policy Committee Chair David Argall (R-29) issued the following statement today:

"Last week, Pennsylvania suffered a heartbreaking tragedy. Pennsylvania State Trooper Michael E. Pahira Jr. was killed in the line of duty during a traffic stop involving a truck driver who was in the country illegally. Trooper Pahira represented the very best of our Commonwealth, dedicating his life to serving his family, his community, and the people of Pennsylvania.

"We remain committed to the safety of our law enforcement officers and every Pennsylvanian. That is why we must strengthen our laws and oversight governing non-domiciled Commercial Driver's Licenses to enhance commercial vehicle safety and help protect lives across our Commonwealth.

"As Pennsylvania mourns the loss of Trooper Michael Pahira, we lift up his family, friends, and fellow law enforcement officers in our prayers and honor his faithful service and sacrifice."

CONTACT: Erica Clayton Wright (Sen. Kim Ward)
CONTACT: Kate Flessner (Sen. Pittman)
CONTACT: Matthew Deegan (Sen. Judy Ward)
CONTACT: Josh Paul (Sen. Argall)