(WHTM) – Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has ordered all U.S. and Commonwealth flags to fly at half-staff following the death of a Pennsylvania State Trooper in Schuylkill County.

The order is for flags at Commonwealth facilities, public buildings, and grounds across the state. All Pennsylvanians are invited to participate in the tribute to State Trooper Michael Pahira, a near 20 year veteran of the State Police at the Troop L Frackville Station.

State Police say Pahira was fatally struck by a commercial vehicle while conducting a vehicle safety inspection on I-81 southbound in Cass Township on July 1.

While inspecting the vehicle, another tractor-trailer left the roadway and struck both Pahira’s pickup truck and the back corner of the tractor-trailer Pahira was inspecting. Pahira became trapped under the striking vehicle and was dragged down the road.

Lieutenant Colonel George L. Bivens, the Acting Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, said a “valiant attempt” was made to save Pahira’s life.

“The man died a hero,” Bivens said. “He was an outstanding trooper, excellent motor carrier enforcement officer… and was considered to be one of our best.”

Shapiro said Wednesday that he met with Pahira’s family, friends, and fellow Troopers at Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schulykill.

“They told me about Mike — about how great a man he was, about his high school wrestling record, his love of cooking, and his commitment to caring for his mother as she battles cancer. Trooper Pahira was the very best of us,” said Shapiro.

Pahira was awarded the State Police Commendation Medal in 2016 after responding to a residential fire and forming a human chain inside. Eleven people were rescued from the building, which was “consumed” by flames.

A thorough investigation is underway into Pahira’s death. Authorities have not identified the driver who was involved.

“Clearly, something very bad happened here,” said Bivens.

This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available.

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