THOMPSON TOWNSHIP, Pa. — August 7, 2025 — The Pennsylvania State Police have identified the two troopers who were shot and seriously injured during an ambush Thursday morning in Thompson Township, Susquehanna County, as Trooper Joseph Perechinsky and Trooper William Jenkins.
According to officials, the incident unfolded at approximately 11:15 a.m. when Trooper Perechinsky and Trooper Jenkins responded to a call near State Route 171, in the rural, mountainous terrain of Thompson Township. As the troopers arrived at the scene, they were ambushed by a gunman armed with a high-powered rifle.
The suspect, whose identity has not yet been publicly released pending notification of next of kin, opened fire on the officers without warning. Both Trooper Perechinsky and Trooper Jenkins sustained serious gunshot wounds in the attack.
Emergency medical responders and backup law enforcement units rushed to the area. The troopers were quickly airlifted to Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, where they underwent emergency treatment. As of Thursday afternoon, both troopers are reported to be in stable condition and surrounded by family and fellow officers.
A swift and coordinated law enforcement response followed the shooting. The suspect, who was reportedly non-compliant and remained armed, was shot and killed during the encounter. Authorities say there is no further threat to the public and the scene has been secured.
The Pennsylvania State Police, with support from local and federal agencies, have launched a full investigation into the shooting. The motive behind the ambush remains unclear at this time. Authorities are working to determine whether the suspect had any prior criminal history or ties to extremist ideologies.
Governor Josh Shapiro addressed the incident in a public statement Thursday, expressing gratitude for the bravery of the troopers and the outpouring of support from the community.
“Lori and I are praying for these two courageous State Troopers, Trooper Perechinsky and Trooper Jenkins. We are grateful they are in stable condition and in the hands of skilled medical professionals. We stand with their families, their fellow officers, and the entire Pennsylvania State Police community during this difficult time,” Shapiro wrote.
Thompson Township, a quiet community located roughly 40 miles north of Scranton, was temporarily placed under lockdown as police worked to contain the situation. Residents were advised to shelter in place during the height of the emergency and to avoid the affected area near State Route 171.
The State Police Major Case Team, along with forensic units, are processing the scene and collecting evidence. Investigators are also reviewing any available body camera and dashcam footage from the troopers and speaking with nearby residents and potential witnesses.
Trooper Joseph Perechinsky and Trooper William Jenkins both have multiple years of service with the Pennsylvania State Police and are well-respected members of their law enforcement community. The Department has not yet provided detailed updates on the specific nature of their injuries but confirmed both men are expected to survive.
The Pennsylvania State Police will release further details as the investigation continues. The public is encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to keep the troopers and their families in their thoughts during this critical time.
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