2 Pennsylvania state troopers have been shot, governor says

THOMPSON, Pa. — 2 Pennsylvania state troopers were shot Thursday morning in what officials are calling a targeted ambush in the rural community of Thompson Township, Susquehanna County—approximately 160 miles north of Philadelphia near the New York state border.

Governor Josh Shapiro, speaking at an event outside Philadelphia, confirmed the incident and expressed concern for the injured officers. “Two state troopers were shot,” Shapiro said solemnly. “Lori and I are praying for those troopers. I’ve spoken with Col. Paris, who is on the scene.”

Colonel Christopher Paris, head of the Pennsylvania State Police, is reportedly leading the on-site response and coordination of the investigation. Shapiro left the event early to travel directly to the shooting location.

According to Pennsylvania State Police spokesperson Trooper Logan T. Brouse, the shooting occurred along Route 171 near the village of Thompson, a quiet rural area in northeastern Pennsylvania. Authorities have not released the names of the troopers or provided specifics about how the shooting unfolded.

Deputy Coroner Angelica Howell of Susquehanna County confirmed that the coroner’s office was called to the scene around mid-afternoon. She said officials did not clarify whether there was more than one fatality when the call came in. This has led to speculation that the situation may involve additional casualties or the shooter’s death, though those details remain unverified as of this report.

U.S. Senator Dave McCormick issued a statement on social media expressing concern and solidarity with law enforcement: “Dina and I are praying for our brave state troopers in Susquehanna County and monitoring the situation closely as more details emerge.”

Similarly, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan shared a cautiously optimistic update later in the day. “I’m relieved to hear the troopers involved in today’s incident in Thompson Township are expected to be in stable condition,” he posted on X.

At this point, no suspects have been publicly identified, and it remains unclear whether the shooter has been apprehended or remains at large. Law enforcement is maintaining a heavy presence in the area, with multiple units reportedly canvassing the surrounding countryside and neighboring communities.

The FBI and other federal agencies are said to be coordinating with state and local authorities as part of the developing investigation.

This shooting comes amid increasing concern about violence targeting police officers in rural and suburban areas. While ambush-style attacks on law enforcement remain statistically rare, they have grown in frequency in recent years, prompting calls for increased support and better protective resources for officers.

The incident has cast a somber mood over Pennsylvania and reignited discussion about the dangers law enforcement faces on a daily basis—even in the state’s quietest corners.

As the situation develops, the governor’s office and state police have urged the public to stay away from the area and to monitor official channels for confirmed updates.

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