A driver fatally shot a Pennsylvania state trooper before killing himself during a traffic stop Sunday night in Chester County, authorities said.
Corporal Timothy J. O’Connor Jr., a 40-year-old father, was struck by gunfire “within seconds” of pulling over a vehicle in West Caln Township, Acting Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner George Bivens told reporters early Monday at Paoli Hospital, where the officer was pronounced dead.
Later Monday, the PSP identified O’Connor’s alleged killer as 32-year-old Jesse Nathan Elks, a Honey Brook resident. He died at the scene.
Bivens said law enforcement received a call about “an erratic driver” in Honey Brook Township at about 8:15 p.m. A few minutes later, O’Connor spotted the car and stopped it near the corner of Route 10 and Michael Road, according to authorities.
As O’Connor approached the driver’s side of the vehicle, Elks opened fire from inside, striking the officer, state police said. He then got out of the car, walked a short distance away and shot himself with a pistol, according to the PSP.
Authorities have not provided any information about a possible motive. The killing is being investigated by the PSP and Chester County District Attorney’s Office.
“This is a tragic day for all of us,” Bivens said in a statement. “We have lost a dear member of our family, a hero and member of the Pennsylvania State Police.”
O’Connor joined the state police more than 15 years ago; during his tenure, he was assigned to the Embreeville and Avondale stations, which are part of Troop J, according to the department. He leaves behind his wife, Casey, a young daughter and other family and friends.
Gov. Josh Shapiro ordered all American and Pennsylvania flags to be flown at half-staff until O’Connor’s burial, which has yet to be scheduled.
“Pennsylvania tragically lost one of our finest when State Police Corporal Tim O’Connor was killed in the line of duty,” the governor said in a statement.
