NORTH CODORUS TOWNSHIP, Pennsylvania – Three police officers were fatally shot and two others injured while serving a warrant before the gunman killed himself, authorities in York County said Sept. 17.
Gov. Josh Shapiro went to the scene after the tragedy.
“This is an absolutely tragic and devastating day,” Shapiro told reporters. “We grieve for the loss of life for the three precious souls who served this commonwealth, served this county and this county.”
Shapiro also asked that people keep in mind the families of the victims of the shooting.
“I hope, as this community comes together, that we think not just about those who wear the uniform, but those behind them,” Shapiro said. “These families are extraordinary and I hope you’ll join me in prayer for them.”
The shooting happened in North Codorus Township, a rural area about 10 miles outside of York, Pennsylvania. Radio dispatchers, York City Mayor Michael Helfrich and other officials have described a horrific scene.
“Our hearts go out to everyone associated with the devastating events in North Codorus Township,” State Rep. Mike Jones said in a post on Facebook. “In an abundance of caution and respect for family members I will not share details at this time. But needless to say the news is horrific and all of your thoughts and prayers are appreciated.”
Helfrich said in a statement that Northern Regional Police Officers and York County Sheriffs Office members were involved.
“The people of the City of York send our respect and condolences to the families of our fallen and wounded Northern Regional Police Officers and York County Sheriffs and to their agencies,” the mayor said. “York City Police have been assisting in the tragic situation and the City of York offers any assistance we can provide to our fellow agencies and the families.”
A reporter with the York Daily Record, part of the USA TODAY Network, witnessed an officer being loaded into a helicopter. York County radio dispatches indicate officers have been injured in the incident in North Codorus Township.
“I’ve been briefed on the situation involving law enforcement in York County, and am on my way there now,” Shapiro said in a statement on X. “We ask those in the area to please follow the directions of local law enforcement.”
York County Office of Emergency Management public information officer Ted Czech said emergency personnel were responding to the scene that was first reported to York County 911 at around 2:10 p.m. local time.
It remains an active scene, Czech said. Numerous police and EMS units are at the site. A landing zone has been set up for a helicopter.
Emergency radio broadcasts indicate there are reports of fatalities in the incident.
York County Coroner Pam Gay said her office has been called to respond to the shooting but provided no other information.
The York Daily Record was provided with photos that showed Northern York County Regional Police officers and a York County Sheriff’s vehicle at the scene. Some officers were armed with rifles at a farm.
Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday responded to the incident with a statement on X: “I am en route to the area and am praying for all involved.”
Pennsylvania State Police are not releasing any information at this time, Trooper James Grothey said.
Check back later as this is a breaking news story.
This article originally appeared on York Daily Record: Three Pennsylvania police officers killed in York County shooting
