Shapiro honors Chester County Trooper killed in line of duty during ceremony

Corporal Timothy J. O’Connor, who was shot and killed in the line of duty in March, was honored by Pa. Gov. Josh Shapiro during the Pennsylvania State Police Memorial Ceremony in Harrisburg on Monday.

Corporal O’Connor was shot and killed during a traffic stop in Honey Brook, Chester County, on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

The suspect, Jesse Nathan Elks, took his own life after shooting O’Connor.

“Our fallen troopers made the ultimate sacrifice for Pennsylvania, and it’s important that we take days like today to gather and honor their life in service, and to reaffirm that we never forget brave troopers like Corporal Timothy O’Connor Jr., and we will always be there for his family,” Shapiro said. 

“The women and men of the Pennsylvania State Police go to work every single day, running towards danger when others are running away to protect our communities and make them safer,” Shapiro added. “Policing is a noble profession, one of courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment. I remain committed to ensuring our troopers and their families have the help and support they deserve all across our great Commonwealth.”

The ceremony at the Pennsylvania State Police’s Department Headquarters also commemorated the 121st anniversary of the PSP’s establishment.

O’Connor’s name was etched into the memorial wall for all of the fallen PSP Troopers since its establishment.

“I am both humbled and honored to pay tribute to Corporal Timothy O’Connor Jr. and the 104 other members of the Pennsylvania State Police who made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Lieutenant Colonel George L. Bivens, the Acting Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. “The 105 names etched into the wall represent not only the individual troopers who died in service to the Commonwealth, but also reflect the sacrifices of their family members and loved ones who continue to endure their loss. Today, we honor all those who laid down their lives and commit to ensuring that their contributions to our Department and Commonwealth are never forgotten.”

Corporal O’Connor was a 15-year veteran of the Pennsylvania State Police who leaves behind a wife and a 6-year-old daughter.