WEST CALN TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A Pennsylvania State Police trooper was shot and killed during a traffic stop Sunday night in Chester County, according to state officials.
Authorities identified the trooper as Corporal Timothy O’Connor, a 15-year veteran of the Pennsylvania State Police. Officials said O’Connor leaves behind a wife and young daughter.
Investigators say the incident began around 8:15 p.m. Sunday when O’Connor responded to a report of an erratic driver in the Honey Brook area. A short time later, he located the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop near Route 10 and Michael Road in West Caln Township.
According to Pennsylvania State Police, O’Connor radioed dispatch after locating the vehicle and initiating the stop. Officials say that was the last communication received from the trooper.
Authorities say that within seconds of approaching the vehicle, the driver opened fire, striking the trooper. O’Connor was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators say the suspect, a 32-year-old Chester County man, then exited the vehicle and died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Governor Josh Shapiro issued a statement following the shooting, calling O’Connor a hero who served the Commonwealth with honor and dedication. The governor has ordered flags across Pennsylvania to be flown at half-staff in the trooper’s honor.
A solemn law enforcement procession later escorted the fallen trooper from the hospital to the Chester County Coroner’s Office late Sunday night.
The shooting remains under investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Chester County District Attorney’s Office.
First Source News will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.
