North Codorus Township, Pa.: Three police officers were shot dead and two others critically injured Wednesday during a violent encounter linked to a domestic investigation, authorities confirmed.
The officers were responding to a follow-up inquiry in a rural area about 115 miles west of Philadelphia when gunfire erupted. Social media footage showed helicopters landing in nearby fields to airlift the wounded. Both injured officers were rushed to York Hospital and remain in critical but stable condition.
“This is an absolutely tragic and devastating day,” Governor Josh Shapiro said. “We grieve the loss of three precious souls who served this county, this Commonwealth, this country. This violence is unacceptable—we must do better as a society.”
Police Commissioner Christopher Paris vowed a full investigation, acknowledging “the grief will be unbearable, but we will bear it.” Condolences poured in from law enforcement agencies across the region, with flowers placed outside the Northern York Regional Police Department headquarters.
Residents described a chaotic scene. Dirk Anderson, a local farmer, said he heard “quite a few” gunshots before witnessing a large police response. About 30 patrol vehicles sealed off roads as nearby schools were placed under a precautionary shelter-in-place order.
Authorities have not yet identified the officers, the suspect, or released details of the confrontation, citing the ongoing investigation.
The attack is among the deadliest incidents for Pennsylvania police in recent decades, recalling the 2009 ambush in Pittsburgh that left three officers dead.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi called the shooting “a scourge on our society,” confirming that federal agents are supporting the investigation. Governor Shapiro, who met with the families of the fallen, said they expressed pride in their loved ones despite their grief, urging stronger mental health and community support to prevent future tragedies.
