THOMPSON, Pa. — A 61-year-old man fatally shot his neighbor and later opened fire on state troopers who responded to the scene, injuring two officers amid a chaotic situation on Thursday. Authorities reported that Carmine Faino shot 57-year-old Lori Wasko outside her home before targeting law enforcement as they arrived.
The incident began around 11 a.m. when Wasko’s boyfriend called 911 to report gunfire near their residence in rural Susquehanna County. Police say Wasko was slain outside her vehicle, although no motive was provided for the shooting.
State police identified the responding troopers as Joseph Perechinsky and William Jenkins. As the officers arrived, Faino began shooting, hitting both law enforcement vehicles with multiple rounds. Both troopers underwent treatment and were reported to be in stable condition with serious injuries.
Colonel Christopher Paris of the Pennsylvania State Police described the ambush, noting that the troopers were dispatched to check on Wasko when Faino opened fire. He praised the troopers’ quick response, emphasizing their good fortune in surviving the attack.
Perechinsky demonstrated remarkable composure by applying a tourniquet to Jenkins after sustaining injuries himself. Another trooper assisted in their rescue. In a quick-thinking move, Perechinsky commandeered a passing tractor-trailer, directing the driver to block the roadway to protect additional bystanders from possible harm.
Governor Josh Shapiro commended both troopers for their actions, particularly highlighting Perechinsky’s determination to secure the scene while injured. “His decisive actions may have saved lives,” the governor stated, acknowledging their bravery in the face of danger.
Faino was reportedly armed with a rifle and failed to comply with commands given by law enforcement. An ensuing exchange resulted in Faino being shot and killed during the incident.
The shooting occurred approximately five miles north of Thompson, a quiet borough that typically enjoys a tranquil atmosphere. Local resident Erika Mills conveyed her shock over the violence in such a peaceful community, noting, “This is a very quiet town. There has never been anything comparable.”
The investigation is ongoing, and police are working to uncover additional details surrounding the circumstances leading up to the shooting.