BREAKING: PSP Col. Christopher Paris Identifies Shooter in Thompson Township Ambush That Left Two State Troopers Wounded, One Civilian Dead
Thompson Township, PA – In a harrowing and violent sequence of events that unfolded early this morning in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Colonel Christopher Paris has officially identified 61-year-old Carmine Faino as the suspect in a deadly ambush-style attack that has left two state troopers seriously injured and one civilian dead.
The incident occurred in the usually quiet rural community of Thompson Township, where residents were jolted awake by the sound of gunfire in what is being described as a “premeditated and targeted” assault on law enforcement. According to Col. Paris, the suspect, Carmine Faino, opened fire on PSP troopers in an unprovoked ambush, catching them completely off guard and inflicting serious injuries on both officers.
“Today, our Commonwealth was struck by a brutal and calculated act of violence,” Col. Paris said during a midday press conference. “Two of our brave troopers were targeted and shot while performing their sworn duty to protect the people of Pennsylvania. Our thoughts are with them and their families as they fight to recover.”
A Gruesome Chain of Events
According to preliminary reports, the violence began just before dawn when Faino shot and killed his neighbor, identified as 59-year-old Lori Wasko, who was reportedly standing near her car outside her residence. Witnesses say Wasko had been preparing to leave for work when she was gunned down in cold blood.
Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive for Wasko’s killing, but neighbors described a long-standing tension between Faino and several local residents, including Wasko. Some reported hearing a brief argument prior to the shots being fired, though investigators have yet to confirm the exact sequence of events.
Immediately following the murder of Wasko, Faino reportedly retreated to a concealed position on his rural property and awaited the arrival of law enforcement officers responding to the initial 911 calls. As troopers arrived on the scene, they were met with gunfire in what Col. Paris called a “deliberate and cowardly ambush.”
The two troopers, whose names have not yet been released to the public, sustained serious injuries and were airlifted to nearby trauma centers. As of Thursday afternoon, both remain hospitalized. One trooper is in critical condition, while the other is stable following emergency surgery.
Massive Response and Ongoing Investigation
Following the shooting, local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies converged on the area. An intense manhunt ensued, and heavily armed officers scoured the wooded terrain surrounding Faino’s residence. A shelter-in-place order was issued for residents in a several-mile radius, as police feared the suspect may still be armed and hiding nearby.
Just before noon, law enforcement confirmed that Carmine Faino had been located and taken into custody without further incident. Officials have not yet released details about his arrest or any statements he may have made while being apprehended.
“This suspect will face the full weight of the law for his actions,” Col. Paris said. “He has not only taken the life of an innocent woman, but he also sought to kill the very individuals who serve to protect us.”
Faino is expected to be charged with multiple felonies, including first-degree murder, attempted murder of law enforcement officers, and aggravated assault. Additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
Community in Shock
The Thompson Township community, with its population of just over 400, has been left reeling from the violence. Residents described Lori Wasko as a kind and dependable neighbor who had lived in the area for many years and was known for her warm demeanor and community involvement.
“This is a nightmare. Lori didn’t deserve this. None of us saw this coming,” said one neighbor, who asked to remain anonymous. “And those poor troopers… they were just doing their job, and now they’re fighting for their lives.”
Local schools and government buildings were closed for the day as a precaution, and grief counselors have been made available for residents affected by the tragedy.
The Path Ahead
As Pennsylvania grapples with the aftermath of yet another attack on law enforcement, officials are reiterating their commitment to holding violent offenders accountable. The Pennsylvania State Troopers Association has issued a statement condemning the attack and pledging support for the injured troopers and their families.
“This violence against our troopers is unacceptable. We stand by our brothers and sisters in uniform, and we will not rest until justice is served,” the association stated.
Governor Josh Shapiro has also been briefed on the incident and released a short statement via social media:
“Devastated to hear of the ambush against our State Troopers in Susquehanna County and the tragic death of a civilian. My heart is with the families of those affected, and I’m praying for the full recovery of our brave officers. Violence like this has no place in our communities.”
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the Pennsylvania State Police.
This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement every day, even in the most rural corners of the state. As the PSP and the Thompson Township community seek answers and healing, one thing is clear: the path to justice will be pursued with resolve, and the memory of Lori Wasko and the sacrifice of the injured troopers will not be forgotten.
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