HOLLIDAYSBURG, Pa. (WTAJ) — A Pennsylvania State Police Lieutenant was honored on Wednesday for his heroic actions after he was critically wounded while responding to help his fellow officers.
According to a PSP document, the incident happened on June 17, 2023, when a gunman fired shots at parked patrol cars at PSP Lewistown before fleeing. During the search, the shooter critically wounded Lt. James Wagner before fleeing again.
Trooper Jacques Rougeau Jr. responded on his day off to assist his officers when he was shot and killed in the line of duty. The gunman was found a short time later and shot and killed.
The ceremony was at the Pennsylvania State Police Troop G Headquarters, at 1510 North Juniata Street in Hollidaysburg.
Although Lt. Wagner was not available for interviews or questions, he did have something to say to his fellow officers who joined the ceremony to honor him.
“It gives me great pride and gives me determination to continue doing the grind; moving forward,” Wagner said.