Thompson Township, PA — A deadly ambush on Thursday left a neighbor dead, two Pennsylvania state troopers wounded, and the suspect fatally shot, following a chaotic gun battle near State Route 171 that included an injured EMT and a dramatic act of bravery involving a commandeered tractor trailer, officials said.
Deadly Shooting Sparks Chain Reaction
The incident began around 11:17 a.m., when police received a report that 61-year-old Carmine Faino had shot his neighbor, 57-year-old Laurie Wasko, as she stood near her car in front of her home. Wasko died from her injuries, according to Pennsylvania State Police Col. Christopher Paris.
“They were ambushed by several rounds of rifle fire from a position of tactical superiority,” Paris told reporters during a press briefing, as reported by CNN.
Troopers Ambushed by Rifle Fire
Responding troopers Joseph Perechinsky and William Jenkins arrived at the scene but were immediately fired upon. The shots came “from a very good distance away,” making it clear that the suspect had taken up a tactically superior position.
An EMT vehicle arriving at the scene was also hit by gunfire, forcing it off the road and injuring the medic inside. That EMT was later reported to be in stable condition.
“At one point, [Faino] was sitting on a propane tank, which caused further concern that he had attempted to turn that into an improvised explosive device,” said Paris.
Trooper Uses Semi-Truck as Shield
Despite being shot twice, Trooper Perechinsky showed extraordinary presence of mind. While injured, he:
- Commandeered a passing tractor trailer
- Used the rig to block the roadway and protect others from incoming gunfire
- Applied a tourniquet to his fellow trooper Jenkins’ wounded arms
“He exemplifies the absolute best of the Pennsylvania State Police,” said Gov. Josh Shapiro, who visited Perechinsky and described him as “a real hero in the community”.
Barricade, Drone Attack, and Final Confrontation
As law enforcement set up a perimeter, they attempted to negotiate with the barricaded suspect, but Faino remained hostile. At one point, he even shot down a police drone that was monitoring his position.
Despite extended negotiations, Faino was shot and killed after refusing to comply with commands. No motive has yet been determined.
“We attempted at length to try and negotiate with Mr. Faino,” said Paris. “He was non-compliant and continued to pose a threat.”
Investigation Underway, Troopers on Leave
Both troopers were airlifted to a hospital and were in stable condition Thursday night. Perechinsky, a 6-year veteran, and Jenkins, with 10 years of service, have both been placed on administrative leave pending a use of force investigation — standard procedure in such cases.
“The troopers are very lucky to be alive,” Paris said. “Their patrol cars were riddled with bullets.”
The district attorney’s office is leading the independent review of the deadly encounter.
What’s your reaction to the heroic actions of these troopers? Share your thoughts in the comments.
