THOMPSON TOWNSHIP, SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY, PA — A heavy law enforcement presence has locked down portions of northeastern Pennsylvania after two Pennsylvania State Police troopers were shot during an active shooting incident along Route 171 late Thursday morning.
The shooting occurred at approximately 11:30 AM near Thompson Township, in the heart of Susquehanna County, a largely rural and wooded area close to the New York state line. The incident has triggered a large-scale emergency response from local, state, and regional agencies, and the situation remains fluid.
Governor Josh Shapiro Responds
News of the shooting was confirmed publicly by Governor Josh Shapiro, who was speaking at an unrelated event in Bucks County when the incident unfolded. The governor paused during his remarks to inform the public of the tragic development and pledged immediate action.
“In Susquehanna County, two state troopers were shot. Lori and I are praying for those troopers and their families,” said Shapiro.
“I’ve spoken with Commissioner Paris, who is on the scene. At the conclusion of this event, I will be traveling to Susquehanna County to be with the men and women of the Pennsylvania State Police.”
The governor’s swift response underscores the gravity of the incident and the state’s commitment to providing support on the ground.
Route 171 Closed as Police Urge Public to Stay Away
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has confirmed that Route 171 is closed in both directions due to ongoing police activity. The closure spans:
- Main Street to Starrucca Creek Road in Thompson Township, and
- Bethel Hill Road to Church Hill Lake Road in Harmony Township.
Officials have issued an urgent advisory asking the public to avoid the area entirely. Law enforcement has not yet released details on the circumstances surrounding the shooting, whether a suspect is in custody, or if there remains an active threat to the public.
Numerous police units, emergency vehicles, and helicopters have been spotted in the region as the investigation unfolds. Local residents report being told to shelter in place, and several rural roadways have been blocked off by law enforcement.
Ongoing Investigation & Unanswered Questions
Details remain limited at this time, as the Pennsylvania State Police, in conjunction with other agencies, continue to process the scene and gather information. It has not been confirmed what led to the troopers’ involvement in the area, whether they were responding to a specific call, or if this was the result of a traffic stop, domestic incident, or something else.
The identities and conditions of the injured troopers have not yet been released. However, sources indicate they were quickly transported to receive emergency medical care. The extent of their injuries remains unknown at this hour.
A Community on Edge
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit communities of Thompson and Harmony Township, areas known more for quiet farmland and peaceful woods than violent crime. Local leaders and residents have voiced their concern and prayers for the troopers involved, as well as the entire Pennsylvania State Police family.
As the investigation continues, updates will be provided by state officials and law enforcement agencies.
This is a breaking news story. Further updates will follow as more details become available.
Stay tuned to official Pennsylvania State Police updates and local alerts.
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