The Pennsylvania State Police are honoring the Trooper who was killed in the line of duty Sunday during a traffic stop in Chester County.
Corporal Timothy O’Connor Jr. enlisted in the Pennsylvania State Police in September 2010 as a member of the 131st cadet class and was assigned to Troop J Avondale after graduation. He transferred to Troop J, Embreeville, in March 2022 and was promoted to Corporal in July 2022.
O’Connor, 40, was the 105th member of the Pennsylvania State Police to die in the line of duty. He leaves behind a wife and daughter.
The gunman who shot and killed O’Connor was identified as 32-year-old Jesse Elks, of Honey Brook. State Police say Elks died following a self-inflicted gunshot.
O’Connor was responding to an erratic driver, identified as Elks, in the area of Walnut Road and Compass Road in Honey Brook Township. O’Connor found the vehicle within minutes and pulled it over near the intersection of Route 10 and Michael Road in West Caln Township, just a few miles from the Lancaster County line.
State Police say Elks immediately opened fire, hitting O’Connor as he was approaching the vehicle. O’Connor was taken to Paoli Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Elks got out of his vehicle, walked a short distance, and fatally shot himself.
The reason for the shooting is still unclear, as the incident is still being investigated by the PSP Troop J Major Case Team and the Chester County District Attorney’s Office.
“This is a tragic day for all of us. We have lost a dear member of our family, a hero and member of the Pennsylvania State Police,” Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens, Acting Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, said. “Our hearts remain with Corporal O’Connor’s wife, daughter, and family. We ask for everyone’s continued prayers to help them during this devastating time.”
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Flags in Pennsylvania were ordered to be flown at half-staff by Governor Josh Shapiro in honor of O’Connor.
“Pennsylvania tragically lost one of our finest when State Police Corporal Tim O’Connor was killed in the line of duty. My heart breaks for Corporal O’Connor’s wife Casey, their young daughter, and their entire family,” Governor Shapiro said. “Lori and I mourn with the Pennsylvania State Police family and with all of our law enforcement partners. I’ve directed flags across our Commonwealth to be lowered in honor of Corporal O’Connor. May his memory be a blessing.”
Pennsylvania State Troopers Association (PSTA) today released the following statement from President Stephen Polishan on Cpl. O’Connor.
“Losing a Trooper is a tragedy for all members of the Pennsylvania State Police, past and present. It is a deep and profound loss because he is our brother. It reminds us how dangerous this job is and that something as simple as tomorrow is never guaranteed. Corporal Tim O’Connor lived his life with honor, bravery and integrity. We will never allow his memory to fade because heroes are eternal. His wife, Casey, and young daughter will forever be part of our family. Please join us in praying for Corporal O’Connor and his beautiful family.”