FRANKLIN COUNTY, Pa. — Two Pennsylvania State Troopers Seriously Injured, Suspect Killed After Intense Gunfight on I-81 in Antrim Township

FRANKLIN COUNTY, Pa. — Two Pennsylvania State Troopers Seriously Injured, Suspect Killed After Intense Gunfight on I-81 in Antrim Township

FRANKLIN COUNTY, Pa. — A harrowing confrontation unfolded along Interstate 81 in Antrim Township on Wednesday evening, leaving two Pennsylvania State Troopers seriously injured and a suspect dead in what authorities have described as a “fierce gunfight” that erupted during a high-risk encounter. The violent exchange has stunned the Franklin County community and prompted a large-scale investigation into the events that led to the deadly confrontation.

According to preliminary reports from the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), the incident began shortly before 7:00 p.m. when troopers attempted to stop a vehicle suspected of being involved in a previous armed incident. The driver initially refused to comply, leading to a pursuit that ended near mile marker 6 on northbound I-81.

As troopers approached the vehicle, the suspect — described as an adult male — opened fire, striking two officers. Troopers immediately returned fire, and a prolonged exchange of gunfire ensued along the busy interstate. Despite the intense and chaotic scene, additional officers quickly arrived to secure the area and render aid.

The two injured troopers were transported to a nearby trauma center, where they remain in serious but stable condition. Both are expected to survive, according to officials. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been publicly released, pending notification of family.

In a late-night press briefing, Colonel Christopher Paris, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, praised the courage of the troopers who faced “an incredibly dangerous and fast-moving situation.”

“Our troopers put their lives on the line every day, and tonight they faced the very worst of what this profession can bring,” Colonel Paris said. “Their bravery and swift actions likely prevented further tragedy.”

The southbound lanes of I-81 were shut down for several hours as investigators processed the scene, collected shell casings, and reviewed dash-cam and body-camera footage. The area was heavily patrolled by local and state law enforcement, with helicopters circling overhead and emergency vehicles lining the highway for much of the evening.

Witnesses described a terrifying scene as the sound of gunfire echoed across the interstate. “It was like something out of a movie,” said one driver who was passing through at the time. “You could hear the shots and see troopers running for cover. Then everything just stopped, and you saw lights everywhere.”

The Pennsylvania State Police Major Case Team has taken over the investigation, working closely with the Franklin County District Attorney’s Office. The Fayetteville Fire Department, EMS teams, and several neighboring agencies responded to assist during the emergency.

Community members and officials across the state have expressed an outpouring of support for the injured troopers and their families. Flags outside several government buildings in Franklin County were lowered to half-staff Thursday morning, and local businesses have already begun organizing fundraisers to assist with medical and recovery costs.

Governor Josh Shapiro also released a statement via social media:

“Our hearts are with the two injured Pennsylvania State Troopers and their families. The bravery of our law enforcement officers in the face of danger is unmatched. We are grateful for their service and pray for their full recovery.”

Residents of Antrim Township say the violence has shaken their normally peaceful community. “It’s frightening to think something like this happened right here,” said local resident Deborah Klein. “We see troopers on this road every day keeping us safe. Now it’s our turn to support them.”

Authorities confirmed that an internal review will be conducted, as is standard procedure in officer-involved shootings. Officials have also promised transparency as more information becomes available regarding the suspect’s background and motives.