Thompson Township, PA – August 7, 2025 — A tense and tragic scene unfolded in rural Susquehanna County on Thursday morning when two Pennsylvania State Troopers — Trooper Joseph Perechinsky and Trooper William Jenkins — were shot and seriously wounded while responding to a call in Thompson Township, roughly 40 miles north of Scranton.
According to a press release from the Pennsylvania State Police, the incident occurred around 11:15 a.m. on State Route 171, where Troopers Perechinsky and Jenkins were dispatched to investigate a report that has yet to be publicly detailed. Upon arrival, the officers were ambushed by a male suspect armed with a rifle, who opened fire without warning.
Both troopers sustained critical injuries during the exchange of gunfire. Emergency medical helicopters were swiftly deployed, and Troopers Perechinsky and Jenkins were airlifted to regional trauma centers, where they remain hospitalized in stable condition as of Thursday afternoon.
In the course of the confrontation, the gunman — whose identity has not been released — refused to comply with commands, continued brandishing the rifle, and was ultimately shot and killed by law enforcement at the scene. Authorities have since confirmed that there is no further threat to the public.
Shortly after 2 p.m., Pennsylvania State Police took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to inform the public of the unfolding situation, urging residents to avoid the area near State Route 171 as the investigation proceeded.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro issued a statement via Facebook, expressing his concern and commitment to the wounded troopers. “Lori and I are praying for these brave Troopers,” the governor wrote. “Our thoughts are with their families, friends, and every member of the Pennsylvania State Police family. We are deeply grateful for their courage and service.”
A massive law enforcement response quickly mobilized in the area, with officers from multiple agencies assisting in securing the scene and initiating a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances leading up to the deadly exchange. Forensic teams and investigators worked well into the afternoon gathering evidence.
Though the suspect was fatally shot, authorities have not released further details about his identity, motive, or whether he had a prior criminal history. The Pennsylvania State Police Internal Affairs Division, along with the State Attorney General’s Office, is overseeing the review of the officer-involved shooting, which is standard protocol in such incidents.
Local residents, stunned by the violence in the quiet, wooded community, have expressed support for the troopers and their families. Flags at state buildings across Susquehanna County have been lowered to half-staff in a sign of solidarity.
This incident underscores the daily dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the unpredictable nature of their duties — even in rural areas. Trooper Joseph Perechinsky and Trooper William Jenkins, both seasoned officers with exemplary records, are expected to undergo surgery and long-term recovery. Their colleagues have launched a support fund to assist with medical costs and family support during their recovery.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have asked anyone with information relevant to the incident to contact the Pennsylvania State Police barracks in Gibson.
If you wish to support the injured officers and their families, donations can be directed to the Pennsylvania State Troopers Association Benevolent Fund.
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