Paul Sokoloski Obituary, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. — Paul Sokoloski, 57, of Hershey, Pennsylvania, has died following a fatal aircraft collision Wednesday evening at Carlisle Regional Airport. Authorities identified Sokoloski as the pilot of a Cessna 150 that collided with a Pennsylvania State Police helicopter during a training exercise near the runway.
The crash occurred at approximately 6:52 p.m. Wednesday at Carlisle Regional Airport. According to preliminary information from Pennsylvania State Police and the Cumberland County Coroner’s Office, Sokoloski was attempting to land when the aircraft suddenly veered to the right before striking the helicopter.
Sokoloski was killed in the collision, while two Pennsylvania State Police troopers who were aboard the helicopter were injured and transported for medical treatment. State police reported that the helicopter was hovering only several inches above the ground when the crash occurred.
Sokoloski was a physician affiliated with Penn State Health and worked as an emergency medicine physician. His professional background also included service as an assistant professor of emergency medicine at Penn State College of Medicine, where he contributed to medical education and training.
Beyond his medical career, Sokoloski had a strong connection to aviation. His professional information listed extensive aviation experience, including a commercial pilot’s license and certification as a flight instructor. He also previously served as security police with the Pennsylvania Air National Guard.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the airport collision. Investigators are reviewing aircraft movements, witness accounts, airport information, and other evidence to determine what caused the aircraft to leave its intended path.
The Cumberland County Coroner’s Office said Sokoloski’s autopsy is scheduled for Tuesday, August 25. Officials have not released additional details about the investigation as the examination of the crash remains ongoing.
Sokoloski is remembered through his years of service in emergency medicine, education, aviation, and military service. As authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances of the crash, condolences are extended to those affected by his passing.
