In a tragic aerial collision near Carlisle Regional Airport, a Pennsylvania State Police helicopter and a Cessna 150 collided, resulting in the death of one pilot and injuries to two state troopers. The accident highlights the risks involved in aviation training exercises, even for experienced pilots.
Experienced Trooper from Moosic
One of the injured troopers was Jason Mills, a seasoned member of the Pennsylvania State Police with strong ties to Northeast Pennsylvania. Mills, who previously worked as a fire marshal in Dunmore, transitioned to the role of a pilot with the PSP Aviation Patrol Unit. His career in law enforcement has seen him tackle numerous fire investigations, including a notable case in March 2019 involving the former Serafina Restaurant in Dunmore.
His expertise extended beyond Lackawanna County, as he was involved in a significant investigation in Paupack Township in December 2025, where he concluded a house fire was deliberately set, leading to charges against the homeowner.
Training Exercise Ends in Tragedy
The collision occurred during a routine training session involving Mills and Corporal Bryce Corman. Tragically, 57-year-old Paul William Sokoloski, the pilot of the Cessna, lost his life. Both troopers were transported to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, where they were treated for minor injuries. Corman has been discharged, while Mills remains hospitalized but in stable condition.
“Both of them thankfully came out with just minor injuries and are stable,” stated Dr. Ashley Ludwig, the hospital’s trauma medical director, during a press briefing. “We’re very grateful that our colleagues with the Pennsylvania State Police are doing as well as they are.”
Investigations Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are leading the investigation into the crash, with assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police. According to Acting Commissioner Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens, the helicopter was hovering over a grassy area when the Cessna unexpectedly deviated from its path and struck the helicopter’s tail rotor, causing the crash.
In the words of Pennsylvania’s Governor, Josh Shapiro, the troopers involved are “members of the elite aviation unit with the Pennsylvania State Police,” emphasizing their critical role in the state’s operations. “We’re so grateful that they are going to be okay,” Shapiro remarked.
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