A Pennsylvania state trooper was shot and killed on Sunday night while conducting a traffic stop in Chester County, according to officials.
The shooting happened in West Caln Township shortly after 9 p.m. during a traffic stop near Compass and Michael roads.
Gov. Josh Shapiro announced that the trooper, identified as Timothy O’Connor, died from the shooting.
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“I am profoundly saddened to announce that tonight, Pennsylvania State Police family lost a son, lost a hero, and lost a dedicated public servant,” Shapiro said at a press briefing.
“Corporal Timothy O’Connor is killed tonight doing what he’s dedicated his life to. And that is serving others, keeping our community safe, looking out for his fellow Pennsylvanians, especially right here in Chester County,” he continued. “Our entire Commonwealth, State Police family, Chester County, are mourning the loss of Corporal O’Connor.”
The governor added: “He died protecting others, and that is a noble calling. That is something we are profoundly grateful for tonight.”
Police “put their lives on the line every single day to protect us, to look after us, to ensure our well-being,” Shapiro said. “That’s what Tim was doing tonight. I hope that the good people of Pennsylvania take a moment to appreciate all who put on a uniform, especially the uniform of the Pennsylvania State Police, and go out every day to look after us, do a lot every day and run into danger to keep the rest of us safe.”
Shapiro said flags in Pennsylvania will be flown at half-staff on Monday in honor of O’Connor.
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Chester County Commissioner Eric Roe also said he was praying for the trooper.
“Chester County’s brave police officers put their lives on the line for us every day. I thank all of them for their extraordinary bravery and sacrifice,” Roe said on Facebook.
