Governor Shapiro Commends Heroic Trooper for Saving Lives During Ambush Shooting
In a powerful display of gratitude and leadership, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro publicly praised Trooper Joseph Perechinsky for his heroic actions during a deadly ambush in Susquehanna County that left two state troopers and a civilian wounded.
On Thursday morning, Troopers Perechinsky and William Jenkins responded to a welfare check in Thompson Township, near Route 171. Upon arrival, they were immediately fired upon by a gunman in what officials described as an ambush. Despite sustaining serious injuries, Trooper Perechinsky acted swiftly and decisively, returning fire and helping to neutralize the threat.
The suspect was killed during the exchange, though it has not been officially confirmed whether Perechinsky fired the fatal shot. Both troopers are now recovering in stable condition at Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton.
During a press conference alongside Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Col. Christopher Paris, Governor Shapiro commended Perechinsky’s bravery:
“Trooper Perechinsky saved lives today,” Shapiro said. “He quite likely saved the life of his partner and the lives of community members who were in the area. He acted decisively, he acted thoughtfully, and the work he did exemplifies the absolute best of the Pennsylvania State Police.”
Shapiro also shared a heartfelt moment from his hospital visit, noting the presence of Perechinsky’s father—a police chief—and his girlfriend, a fellow trooper. “It was uplifting and spiritual, quite frankly, to be with them,” he said. “When a cop can bust chops, it means they're going to be okay.”
Governor Shapiro urged Pennsylvanians to join him and First Lady Lori Shapiro in prayer for the families of both troopers and the broader law enforcement community. He emphasized the emotional toll such incidents take, stating, “It never gets easier. But I am always strengthened by and lifted up by the heroism and the bravery that these troopers demonstrate in really difficult circumstances.”
Local EMS teams responded rapidly, and the Pennsylvania State Police confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the community. The incident marks the fifth and sixth shooting of state troopers during Shapiro’s tenure, underscoring the risks law enforcement officers face daily