Pennsylvania Killer SHOOTS DOWN Police Drone

Crime scene markers on asphalt with bullet casing.

A 61-year-old Pennsylvania man executed a calculated ambush on law enforcement officers with a semiautomatic weapon after murdering his neighbor, exposing the deadly threats our brave first responders face in an increasingly violent society.

Story Snapshot

Carmine Faino killed neighbor Lori Wasko then ambushed responding state troopers with dozens of rounds
Two Pennsylvania State Police troopers and an EMT were wounded in the calculated attack
The gunman used a semiautomatic weapon and even shot down a police drone during the standoff
Police Emergency Response Team eliminated the threat after negotiations failed

Deadly Ambush in Rural Pennsylvania

On August 7, 2025, 61-year-old Carmine Faino shot and killed his 57-year-old neighbor Lori Wasko outside her home in Thompson Township, Susquehanna County. When Pennsylvania State Police Troopers Joseph Perechinsky and William Jenkins responded to the 911 call around 11:00 a.m., Faino launched a premeditated ambush. The gunman fired dozens of rounds from a semiautomatic weapon, wounding both troopers who were simply doing their duty to protect and serve.

Escalating Violence Against First Responders

The violence didn’t stop with the trooper ambush. Faino continued his assault on law enforcement by firing at police vehicles and shooting down a police drone. An Emergency Medical Technician responding to help the wounded officers also came under fire, causing the EMT’s vehicle to crash and injuring the medical professional. This calculated attack demonstrates the growing dangers our first responders face when responding to what should be routine calls.

Community Under Siege

Thompson Township residents describe their community as “very, very quiet” with no history of comparable violence. The incident occurred near State Route 171, about five miles north of Thompson, in a remote area where law enforcement backup is limited. Local residents were shocked by the unprecedented violence in their peaceful rural community, highlighting how quickly domestic situations can escalate into deadly confrontations.

Pennsylvania State Police Colonel Christopher Paris confirmed that after negotiation attempts failed, Faino continued to pose an active threat to officers and civilians. The Emergency Response Team made the necessary decision to use lethal force to eliminate the ongoing danger. Both wounded troopers remain hospitalized in stable condition with serious injuries, while the EMT is recovering from crash-related injuries.

Investigation Reveals Troubling Questions

Authorities continue investigating Faino’s background and potential motives for the unprovoked attack. No prior public record of conflict between Faino and Wasko has emerged, leaving investigators searching for answers about what triggered this deadly escalation. The lack of an immediately clear motive underscores the unpredictable nature of armed confrontations that our law enforcement officers face daily, often with little warning or preparation time.

Rural Pennsylvania man kills neighbor and wounds responding troopers in gunfire ambush, police say https://t.co/wM83qCDKNK

— 13WMAZ News (@13wmaznews) August 8, 2025

Governor Josh Shapiro expressed support for the wounded troopers and their families, recognizing the sacrifice these officers made while protecting their community. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers facing law enforcement in rural areas where backup may be miles away and officers must rely on their training and courage to protect innocent lives.