West Caln Township, PA – The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) is honoring fallen Corporal Timothy O’Connor Jr. today, releasing more information about the dedicated member who was killed in the line of duty last night during a traffic stop.
Corporal O’Connor was assigned to Troop J, Embreeville Station, and enlisted in the PSP in September 2010 as a member of the 131st cadet class. Upon graduation, he was assigned to Troop J, Avondale, and in October 2016, he joined their Criminal Investigation Unit. In March 2022, he transferred to Troop J, Embreeville, and in July 2022, was promoted to corporal and continued serving at Troop J, Embreeville. Corporal O’Connor was 40 years old and became the 105th member of the PSP to make the ultimate sacrifice by giving his life in the line of duty. Corporal O’Connor leaves behind a wife and daughter.
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,” said Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens, Acting Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. “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.”
Governor Josh Shapiro ordered flags to fly at half-staff in Corporal O’Connor’s honor.
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,” said Governor Shapiro. “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.”
Last night we lost a distinguished protector of the Chester County community,” said Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe, District Attorney, Chester County. “We grieve the loss of Corporal O’Connor and share our deepest condolences with his family.”
Corporal O’Connor had responded to a report of an erratic driver in the area of Walnut Road and Compass Road in Honey Brook Township, Chester County. Corporal O’Connor located the vehicle within minutes and initiated a traffic stop at approximately 8:24 p.m. near the intersection of Route 10 and Michael Road in West Caln Township, Chester County. As Corporal O’Connor approached the vehicle, the driver immediately opened fire from inside the vehicle, striking the 15-year PSP veteran from the driver’s side of the vehicle.
The gunman then exited the vehicle, walked a short distance, 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 was pronounced deceased.
The gunman has been identified as Jesse Nathan Elks, age 32, of Honey Brook, Chester County.
PSP Troop J Major Case Team and the Chester County District Attorney’s Office are investigating this incident.
For more information on the Pennsylvania State Police, visit the PSP website.