Motorcycle Crash Kills Off-Duty Fridley Police Officer
Barry Pankonin was wearing a helmet; alcohol does not appear to have been a factor in the single-vehicle crash near his Plymouth home, police said.
See a separate story about the memorial service for Fridley Police Officer Barry Pankokin, and another post with more than 50 photos from Pankonin's funeral. Also: a photo of memorials left near Pankonin's home and the crash site. Fridley Police Officer Barry Pankonin died Tuesday near his Plymouth home in an off-duty motorcycle crash that did not involve other vehicles, pedestrians or riders. He was wearing a helmet. He was 38, a veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard with more than 12 years service to Fridley. Funeral arrangements are pending [Note: funeral arrangements are now public] and an investigation by Plymouth police continues. It is the first death of an active-duty Fridley police officer, whether in the line of duty or off …
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Rachael Mattson
10:47 pm on Sunday, September 2, 2012
I am saddened to learn of this news. Thoughts and prayers to Officer Pankonin's family and friends. He was a great Officer who took time out of his busy schedule while on duty for a quick "Hello" and chat to any child who approached him. He will be missed. 08/21/12 was a sad day for many, I lost my Mom that day too. May they both Rest in Peace. more ›