A Pennsylvania State Police trooper will run the Erie Presque Isle Marathon in full uniform to honor Corporal Timothy O'Connor, who was killed in the line of duty. The marathon, scheduled for Sunday (September 13, 2026), aims to raise $100,000 for Corporal O'Connor's family.
Corporal O'Connor, a 15-year veteran of the Pennsylvania State Police, was shot during a traffic stop in West Caln Township, Chester County, in March 2026. The shooter, Jesse Nathan Elks, also died at the scene in what has been classified as a murder-suicide.
Trooper Trombetta, participating in the marathon, seeks to honor O'Connor's sacrifice and support his family. The event is organized by Camp Cadet, which emphasizes community support for law enforcement families. "He made the ultimate sacrifice," Camp Cadet stated, urging the public to donate and share the cause.
Governor Josh Shapiro ordered flags to be flown at half-staff across the state to honor O'Connor. In a statement, State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens expressed the department's grief, describing O'Connor as a hero who protected others.
Donations for O'Connor's family can be made through the Help a Hero campaign, with 76% of the goal already reached. The Pennsylvania State Police and the Fraternal Order of Police have also issued statements mourning O'Connor's loss and supporting his family.