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Three law enforcement officers lost their lives, and two others were critically injured in Pennsylvania on Wednesday during a confrontation with an armed suspect, who was subsequently fatally shot by police, authorities reported.
The incident occurred in Codorus Township, a community in York County, southeastern Pennsylvania, when officers responded to revisit an earlier investigation, according to State Police Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris.
“They were there to follow up on an investigation that started yesterday,” Paris said during a news conference hours later. He did not provide many details but described the investigation as “domestic-related.”
Three officers died on the scene, while two others hit by gunfire were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they remained in critical but stable condition.
Initial reports suggest the officers may have been serving a search warrant when gunfire erupted, though this has not been officially confirmed.
Paris noted that the suspect was killed by police. His identity remains undisclosed, and authorities have not yet revealed which law enforcement agencies the officers served.
“Our hearts are with the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice,” Police Chief Nathan Harper stated during a televised briefing.
“This is an extremely tragic day for the Pittsburgh Police Department. We have never before lost three officers in one incident while on duty,” Harper added.
Earlier, Harper said the suspect was armed with one assault rifle, one long-barrel rifle, a pistol, and a large ammunition stockpile.
The officers who entered the residence were shot almost immediately, leading Harper to believe they may have been caught in a trap set by the gunman.
“As soon as the officers stepped into the doorway, they were met with gunfire,” Harper explained. Both Harper and another officer, who entered through the same door, were shot in the head.
Harper announced that the suspect, now hospitalized, faces three homicide charges. Because killing a police officer is a capital offense in Pennsylvania, the suspect potentially faces the death penalty.
Governor Josh Shapiro visited the hospital to honor the fallen officers, calling the day “absolutely tragic and devastating” for York County and the entire state. He urged prayers for their families.
“This is a day of profound grief. I want the families to know how proud their loved ones were to wear the badge and serve,” Shapiro said.
He also mentioned he received a call from U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, offering federal assistance if needed.
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