A Pennsylvania State Trooper was shot and killed Sunday night during a traffic stop in Chester County. The officer has been identified as Corporal Timothy O’Connor Jr., 40, a 15-year veteran. He leaves behind a wife and young daughter. Shooting Details O’Connor responded to a call about an erratic driver in the Honey Brook area of West Caln Township around 8:15 p.m., according to Acting Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner George L. Bivens. At 8:26 p.m., O’Connor located and stopped the vehicle in the area of Route 10 and Michael Road. “He made a radio transmission indicating he was stopping the vehicle. That’s the last we heard from Corporal O’Connor.” Bivens said during a news conference, “A patrol responded immediately to check on his well-being and found a very bad situation.” Bivens said when O’Connor approached the driver’s side window, the suspect shot him. The suspect then got out of the car, walked a short distance and took his own life. State Police identified the gunman as Jesse Nathan Elks, 32, of Honey Brook, Chester County. Chester County District Attorney Chris de Barrena-Sarobe says they will investigate the suspect’s background and potential motive as the investigation continues. “They risk their lives every day… everyone who wears uniform,” said Gov. Josh Shapiro. Shapiro ordered flags at half-staff Monday in O’Connor’s honor. Statements The Pennsylvania State Troopers Association released this statement from President Stephen Polishan: “Losing a trooper is a tragedy for all members of the Pennsylvania State Police, past and present. It is a profound loss because he is our brother. It reminds us how dangerous this job is and that something as simple as tomorrow is never guaranteed. Corporal Tim O’Connor lived his life with honor, bravery and integrity. We will never allow his memory to fade because heroes are eternal. His wife, Casey, and their little girl daughter will always be a part of our family. Please join us in praying for Corporal O’Connor and his beautiful family.” The Fraternal Order of Police – Pennsylvania State Lodge issued this statement from President Joseph Regan: “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Pennsylvania State Police Corporal Tim O’Connor, who was performing one of the most routine and dangerous duties in law enforcement when he made the ultimate sacrifice.” Behind every badge is a person who took an oath to serve and protect, knowing that every shift carries risks most people will never fully understand. Corporal O’Connor answered that call with bravery and dedication, and his sacrifice will never be forgotten. “This tragedy is a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement faces when protecting their communities. We ask the public to keep Corporal O’Connor’s family, friends, and the men and women of the Pennsylvania State Police in their prayers.” About Corporal Timothy O’Connor Assigned to Troop J, Embreeville Station. (Cadet Class 131). After graduation, assigned to Troop J, Avondale. Joined Troop J, Avondale Criminal Investigation Unit in October 2016. Transferred to Troop J, Embreeville in March 2022. Promoted Corporal in July 2022 and continued serving with Troop J, Embreeville. He was 40 years old. He became the 105th PSP member to die in the line of duty. Survived by his wife and daughter.
A Pennsylvania State Trooper was shot and killed Sunday night during a traffic stop in Chester County.
The officer has been identified as Corporal Timothy O’Connor Jr., 40, a 15-year veteran. He leaves behind a wife and a young daughter.
Filming details
O’Connor responded to a call about an erratic driver in the Honey Brook area of West Caln Township around 8:15 p.m., according to Acting Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner George L. Bivens. At 8:26 p.m., O’Connor located and stopped the vehicle in the area of Route 10 and Michael Road.
“He made a radio transmission indicating he was stopping the vehicle. That’s the last we heard from Corporal O’Connor.” Bivens said during a news conference: “A patrol responded immediately to check on his well-being and found a very bad situation.”
Bivens said when O’Connor approached the driver’s side window, the suspect shot him. The suspect then got out of the car, walked a short distance and took his own life.
State Police identified the gunman as Jesse Nathan Elks, 32, of Honey Brook, Chester County.
Chester County District Attorney Chris de Barrena-Sarobe says they will investigate the suspect’s background and potential motive as the investigation continues.
Police procession, flags at half mast
Police officers led a procession with O’Connor’s body from the hospital to the Chester County Government Services Center.
“They risk their lives every day… everyone who wears uniform,” said Gov. Josh Shapiro.
Shapiro on Monday ordered flags at half-staff in O’Connor’s honor.
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Statements
The Pennsylvania State Police Association released this statement from President Stephen Polishan:
“Losing a Trooper is a tragedy for all members of the Pennsylvania State Police, past and present. It is a profound loss because he is our brother. It reminds us how dangerous this job is and that something as simple as tomorrow is never guaranteed. Corporal Tim O’Connor lived his life with honor, bravery and integrity. We will never allow his memory to fade because heroes are eternal. His wife, Casey, and young daughter will always be a part of our family. Please join us in praying for Corporal O’Connor and her beautiful family.”
The Fraternal Order of Police – Pennsylvania State Lodge issued this statement from President Joseph Regan:
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Pennsylvania State Police Corporal Tim O’Connor, who was performing one of the most routine and dangerous duties in law enforcement when he made the ultimate sacrifice.
“Behind every badge is a person who took an oath to serve and protect, knowing that every shift carries risks that most people will never fully understand. Corporal O’Connor answered that call with bravery and dedication, and his sacrifice will never be forgotten.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement faces when protecting their communities. We ask the public to keep Corporal O’Connor’s family, friends, and the men and women of the Pennsylvania State Police in their prayers.”
About Corporal Timothy O’Connor
- Assigned to Troop J, Embreeville Station.
- He enlisted in the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) in September 2010 (131st Cadet Class).
- After graduation, assigned to Troop J, Avondale.
- He joined Troop J, Avondale Criminal Investigation Unit in October 2016.
- Transferred to Troop J, Embreeville March 2022.
- Promoted Corporal in July 2022 and continued to serve with Troop J, Embreeville.
- He was 40 years old.
- He became the 105th PSP member to die in the line of duty.
- He is survived by his wife and daughter.