(PatriotNews.net) – Brigadier General John Pogorek, commander of the New Hampshire Air National Guard, was tragically killed in a hit-and-run accident on Monday. The Rochester Police Department shared the news on social media the following day.
Pogorek, aged 57, had pulled over his 2014 Toyota Tundra to the side of the road and got out to secure his load when he was struck by a red Toyota RAV4. The police said Pogorek was hit while standing outside his truck, and he died at the scene. The driver of the RAV4, identified as 81-year-old Paul Clement, kept driving after hitting Pogorek. It’s unclear if Clement will face charges.
Inside Pogorek’s truck, a young passenger was unharmed during the accident. According to Pogorek’s biography, he graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1989 and joined the New Hampshire Air National Guard in 1999. He took command of the New Hampshire Air National Guard in June 2022. Before that, he led the 157th Air Refueling Wing and the 157th Operations Group at Pease Air National Guard Base.
“Gen. Pogorek was an exemplary wingman, mentor, and friend to many,” said New Hampshire Adjutant Gen. David Mikolaities. “He served his state and nation with the utmost professionalism and dedication. He will be deeply missed.”
New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu also expressed his condolences. “On behalf of the entire State of New Hampshire, I extend my sincere condolences to the family of Gen. Pogorek,” Sununu wrote in a statement on social media. “Gen. Pogorek served his state, country, and community with honor. His commitment and contributions to the Granite State will never be forgotten.”
John Pogorek is survived by his wife, Whitney, and their five children.
The Rochester police are continuing to investigate the crash and have asked anyone with information to contact them at 603-330-7128.
