Pennsylvania State Trooper Killed in Traffic Stop Shooting

Authorities say the trooper was shot and killed by the driver he had pulled over.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Pennsylvania State Police trooper was shot and killed by a man he had pulled over in a traffic stop on Sunday night, according to authorities. The shooter, identified as 32-year-old Jesse Nathan Elks, then got out of the car, walked a short distance away, and shot and killed himself with a pistol.

Why it matters

The tragic incident highlights the dangers that law enforcement officers face during routine traffic stops and the need for continued efforts to ensure the safety of both officers and the public.

The details

Cpl. Tim O'Connor, a 15-year veteran of the state police, was killed as he approached the car when the driver, Jesse Nathan Elks, fired from inside the vehicle. O'Connor was married and had a young daughter.

  • The incident occurred on Sunday night around 8 PM.
  • Cpl. O'Connor was dispatched to respond to a call for an erratic driver and reported that he had pulled over the car at an intersection in West Caln Township.

The players

Cpl. Tim O'Connor

A 15-year veteran of the Pennsylvania State Police who was killed in the line of duty.

Jesse Nathan Elks

A 32-year-old man from Honey Brook, Pennsylvania who shot and killed Cpl. O'Connor before taking his own life.

Lt. Col. George Bivens

The acting police commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police who provided details on the incident at a news conference.

Gov. Josh Shapiro

The governor of Pennsylvania who ordered flags to be flown at half-staff to honor Cpl. O'Connor.

Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe

The Chester County district attorney who said investigators will look into Elks' background and motives.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Anybody you talk to tells you what a great guy he was.”

— Lt. Col. George Bivens, Acting Police Commissioner, Pennsylvania State Police (wbal.com)

“That is a noble calling and that is something we are profoundly grateful for.”

— Gov. Josh Shapiro (wbal.com)

What’s next

Investigators will continue to look into the background and motives of the shooter, Jesse Nathan Elks, as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks that law enforcement officers face in the line of duty and the need for continued efforts to ensure their safety and the safety of the public they serve.