Pennsylvania State Trooper Cpl. Timothy O’Connor Killed in Chester County Traffic Stop

A Pennsylvania State Police corporal was fatally shot during a traffic stop in West Caln Township, Chester County, on Sunday night, authorities confirmed. Cpl. Timothy O’Connor, 40, is the 105th member of the Pennsylvania State Police to die in the line of duty.

Details of the Shooting

According to Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens, Corporal O’Connor responded to a report of an erratic driver around 8:15 p.m. On Sunday. He initiated a traffic stop near the intersection of Route 10 and Michael Road in West Caln Township at approximately 8:24 p.m. After the vehicle stopped, Corporal O’Connor radioed dispatch, which was his last communication.

The suspect, identified as 32-year-old Jesse Nathan Elks of Honey Brook, Chester County, opened fire on Corporal O’Connor as he approached the vehicle. Elks then exited the vehicle and fatally shot himself with a semi-automatic pistol. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Corporal O’Connor was transported to Paoli Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.

Corporal O’Connor’s Service and Family

Corporal O’Connor enlisted in the Pennsylvania State Police in September 2010 as a member of the 131st cadet class. He was initially assigned to Troop J, Avondale, and later joined the Criminal Investigation Unit in October 2016. In March 2022, he transferred to Troop J, Embreeville, and was promoted to corporal in July 2022.

He is survived by his wife, Casey, and their daughter. His parents are Maureen and Tim O’Connor.

Official Response

Governor Josh Shapiro has ordered flags across the Commonwealth to be flown at half-staff in honor of Corporal O’Connor’s service and sacrifice. “Pennsylvania tragically lost one of our finest when State Police Corporal Tim O’Connor was killed in the line of duty,” Governor Shapiro said.

“We lost a dear member of our family tonight, a hero,” said Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens, Acting Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police.

The Chester County District Attorney’s Office and Pennsylvania State Police are investigating the shooting.