Central PA News

MIFFLINTOWN – A dedication ceremony held today honored Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Jacques F. Rougeau Jr., who died last summer in the line of duty. The ceremony named the interchange where U.S. Routes 22/322 meet Arch Rock Road. Act 17 of 2023, supported by Rep. Perry Stambaugh and Sen. Judy Ward, enabled the commemoration of the Trooper Jacques F. Rougeau, Jr., Memorial Interchange.

"Trooper Rougeau represents the best of us," said Rep. Perry Stambaugh. "His heroics are remembered by residents of Juniata County and the Commonwealth every day, and the signs we unveiled at the interchange will provide all of us with one more way to reflect on his commitment and sacrifice."

Approximately 750 motorists use the Arch Rock exit in Fermanagh Township daily.

“Trooper Rougeau was off duty when a gunman started his firing spree,” Sen. Judy Ward said. “Yet he didn’t hesitate to come to the aid of local first responders and his brothers and sisters in uniform.”

Rougeau enlisted in the Pennsylvania State Police in June 2020 as part of the 160th Cadet Class. He was the 104th member of the Keystone State’s rural constabulary to give his life since 1905.

"The loss we experienced that day continues to have ripple effects," said Sgt. Lucas Rankin, station commander for Pennsylvania State Police – Lewistown. "We are all better for having known Trooper Rougeau."

The decedent’s family participated in a ceremony during which draping was removed from signs to reveal the permanent installation on U.S. Routes 22/322. Also participating was Lt. James A. Wagner, who was shot and injured during the June 17 incident.

A graduate of Corry Area High School near Erie, Rougeau later graduated from Penn State University and the Pennsylvania State Police Academy. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Police and enjoyed golf, basketball, aviation, and Penn State football.