NORTH CODORUS TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A tragic shooting on Wednesday claimed the lives of three police officers and left two others critically injured in rural southern Pennsylvania. Authorities confirmed that the suspected gunman was also killed during the confrontation.
The officers had responded to a domestic-related investigation that began the previous day when the violence erupted in North Codorus Township, about 115 miles west of Philadelphia and near the Maryland border.
Governor’s Response
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro described the incident as “an absolutely tragic and devastating day,” adding:
“We grieve the loss of life of three precious souls who served this county, who served this Commonwealth, who served this country. This kind of violence is not OK. We need to do better as a society.”
The attack marks one of the deadliest days for law enforcement in Pennsylvania in recent decades, recalling a 2009 ambush in Pittsburgh where three officers were killed while responding to a domestic disturbance.
Community and Police Reaction
Condolences poured in from police departments across the region. Outside the Northern York Regional Police Department headquarters, community members laid flowers to honor the fallen officers.
Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Christopher Paris called the grief “unbearable but one we will bear,” vowing a full and transparent investigation. A solemn procession of dozens of emergency vehicles escorted the officers’ remains to the coroner’s office, where local residents lined the streets, holding American flags and saluting.
Witness Accounts
Local farmer Dirk Anderson, who lives near the scene, recalled hearing “quite a few” gunshots from his shop before emergency helicopters and heavily armed police arrived.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials have not yet released the names of the officers, the gunman, or the exact circumstances of the shooting, citing the ongoing investigation. The two wounded officers remain in critical but stable condition at York Hospital.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi condemned the attack, calling violence against law enforcement “a scourge on our society.” Federal agents have been deployed to assist local authorities.
A Growing Concern
The tragedy adds to a troubling rise in violent incidents against police officers across Pennsylvania. In February, another officer was killed during a hospital hostage situation in the same region.
Governor Shapiro stressed the need for greater action on mental health support and conflict resolution, saying:
“We need to help the people who think picking up a weapon is the answer. We need to do better when it comes to looking out for those in need so we don’t have to deal with tragedies like this.”