SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY, Pa. – What started as a routine response in Susquehanna County quickly turned into a nightmare on Thursday. Two Pennsylvania State Troopers were shot, and a woman was killed in what police are calling a harrowing day.
“It’s been a very tragic and harrowing day for the community here in Susquehanna County and the Pennsylvania State Police,” said Col. Christopher Paris, commissioner of the state police.
The violence began just after 11 a.m., when troopers responded to a home on Route 171 in Thompson Township. That’s where police say 57-year-old Lori Wasko was shot and killed outside her home by a neighbor.
“Ms. Lori Wasko was shot and killed in front of that residence in the general vicinity of her vehicle,” Paris said.
Soon after, Troopers Joseph Perechinsky and William Jenkins were ambushed and shot multiple times with a rifle. Despite their injuries, both survived.
“Despite being very severely wounded, Trooper Perechinsky was able to tourniquet both arms of Trooper Jenkins,” Paris added.
The suspect, 61-year-old Carmine Faino, refused to surrender and was ultimately shot and killed by members of the State Police Special Emergency Response Team after an hours-long standoff.
“After a period of attempting to negotiate with him, he continued to be a threat and he was shot by members of the Special Emergency Response Team. He is deceased,” Paris said.
Both troopers are now recovering in stable condition.
“They’re the real story here today,” Paris said. “I’m humbled and proud to serve as the commissioner, and I really appreciate all the thoughts in the community and the prayers.”