SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY, PA — In a harrowing incident that unfolded late Thursday morning, Troopers Joseph Perechinsky and William Jenkins, both members of the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), were seriously injured in a shooting in Thompson Township, Susquehanna County. The two troopers were ambushed by an armed suspect while conducting a welfare check along Route 171. The suspect, who was armed with a rifle, opened fire on the troopers upon their arrival, injuring both law enforcement officers. The suspect was killed at the scene by law enforcement during the exchange of gunfire.

The Incident: Timeline and Details

The events began at approximately 11:00 a.m. on Thursday morning, when Troopers Perechinsky and Jenkins were dispatched to perform a welfare check in Thompson Township, located in Susquehanna County, following a report of a potential emergency situation. Upon reaching the address along Route 171, the troopers were immediately met with gunfire from a suspect who was armed with a rifle. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the suspect, and the precise nature of the welfare check remains under investigation.

Both troopers were struck by gunfire during the exchange. In response, emergency crews were quick to respond to the scene, and the injured officers were airlifted to a nearby medical facility for treatment.

Injuries and Medical Care

Troopers Joseph Perechinsky and William Jenkins sustained serious injuries during the ambush. Both officers were swiftly airlifted to Geisinger Scranton Community Medical Center (CMC). According to law enforcement sources, Trooper Perechinsky and Trooper Jenkins are currently in stable condition as of Thursday evening. The medical staff at Geisinger Scranton is providing care, and both officers are reportedly in good spirits, with their families by their side during recovery.

Governor Josh Shapiro, who was in Bucks County at a scheduled event, confirmed the shooting incident and later visited Trooper Perechinsky at the medical center. In a public statement, the governor praised Trooper Perechinsky’s bravery, stating that he exhibited heroic actions during the encounter, including saving the life of his fellow trooper, William Jenkins. The governor reassured the public that Perechinsky is in good spirits and recovering well with his loved ones present.

While Trooper Jenkins is also reported to be in stable condition, his hospital location has not been disclosed, and authorities have not shared additional details about his current condition.

Suspect’s Death and Law Enforcement Response

The incident took a tragic turn when law enforcement officers on the scene returned fire, ultimately killing the suspect. The identity of the shooter has not been released by authorities, and the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s actions and motivations are still under investigation. Law enforcement officials are working to determine how the situation escalated from a routine welfare check to a violent exchange of gunfire.

Local authorities, alongside state police investigators, are processing the scene and continuing to gather information to piece together the events that led to the tragic encounter. The investigation is ongoing, and additional details are expected to be revealed in the coming days.

Governor’s Response and Public Support

During his visit to Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, Governor Josh Shapiro expressed his concern and support for the wounded officers and their families. The governor praised the actions of Trooper Perechinsky, acknowledging his bravery under fire. “Trooper Perechinsky’s heroism saved lives during this tragic incident, including the life of his fellow trooper,” Governor Shapiro said in a statement. He also reiterated that Trooper Perechinsky was in good spirits and surrounded by his family as he continued his recovery.

The governor further announced plans to visit Trooper Jenkins as well, although the specific hospital where Jenkins is being treated has not yet been disclosed. Governor Shapiro expressed his support for all Pennsylvania State Police personnel involved, calling their courage and commitment to public service an example for others in law enforcement.

Community Reactions and Support for Law Enforcement

The shooting of Troopers Perechinsky and Jenkins has shocked the Susquehanna County community and has drawn widespread support for the officers from the public. Local residents have expressed their concern for the injured troopers, and many have reached out to show solidarity with the Pennsylvania State Police. Several community leaders have condemned the actions of the suspect, calling it an attack on law enforcement and the values that the police protect.

Local businesses and organizations have also expressed their support, with some offering to assist the families of the injured troopers. The community’s show of support has been a bright spot amidst the tragedy, reminding everyone of the importance of standing behind law enforcement officers who risk their lives to keep communities safe.

Investigation and Law Enforcement Collaboration

The shooting has prompted an extensive investigation, with both state and federal law enforcement agencies involved in processing the scene and gathering evidence. The Pennsylvania State Police have been working closely with federal agents to piece together the events that led to the altercation.

State Police Commissioner Christopher Paris spoke publicly about the incident, emphasizing the importance of continuing to support law enforcement and ensuring that the perpetrators of violence against officers are held accountable. Commissioner Paris praised the swift and effective response by PSP officers in bringing the situation to a resolution and ensuring that Troopers Perechinsky and Jenkins received the care they needed.

Law Enforcement Safety and Training

The events that unfolded in Thompson Township have sparked discussions about the safety of law enforcement officers and the risks they face on a daily basis. Police unions and law enforcement advocacy groups have highlighted the dangerous nature of the job, with many calling for continued improvements in officer safety training and equipment to protect officers while they carry out their duties.

The Pennsylvania State Police has reiterated its commitment to officer safety and vowed to continue reviewing its procedures and policies to better equip its troopers to handle dangerous situations, such as the one that occurred on Thursday morning.

Additional Details Expected in Press Briefing

As the investigation continues, additional details are expected to be released during a press briefing later Thursday evening at the Pennsylvania State Police Barracks in Dunmore, Pennsylvania. Law enforcement officials have stated that they will provide further updates regarding the investigation and any new developments regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Conclusion: A Community in Shock, Law Enforcement Resilience

The shooting of Troopers Joseph Perechinsky and William Jenkins has left Susquehanna County in shock and has highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day. As both troopers continue their recovery, the community is rallying behind them, offering support and prayers for their well-being.

While the suspect involved in the shooting is now deceased, the investigation is still ongoing, and law enforcement agencies continue to work together to determine the full scope of what led to this tragic event. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring justice and supporting the brave officers who risked their lives to protect the public.

With the troopers reported in stable condition, there is hope that they will fully recover from their injuries, and the community will continue to support law enforcement officers as they perform their critical roles in safeguarding public safety.