Three police officers were killed and two others critically injured in a shooting in the US state of Pennsylvania, while following up on a domestic-related investigation, authorities have said.
Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris confirmed that the gunman was fatally shot by the police.
The incident transpired just after 14:00 local time (18:00 GMT), leading to the airlifting of an injured officer via medical helicopter. Local updates indicated that a nearby school district in Spring Grove, a small community of approximately 2,500 residents, was advised to shelter in place during the incident; however, the school was not directly affected.
Officials have stated that there was no persistent threat to the public following the shooting, which took place in a rural section of York County, North Codorus Township, about 100 miles (160km) west of Philadelphia.
Initial investigations suggest that law enforcement was present due to inquiries initiated the day prior. The details surrounding the events continue to be sparse as the inquiry is still active.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro visited the region of the shooting and consoled the families of the deceased officers. In his statements, Shapiro expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life, emphasizing the commitment of these officers to their duty, and condemned the violence. He called for societal improvements to counter such incidents.
In remembrance of the fallen officers, Governor Shapiro ordered state flags to be lowered to half-mast across all public buildings and grounds.
The FBI is currently on the ground assisting local and state officials in the ongoing investigation. FBI Director Kash Patel expressed condolences, calling for prayers for the officers and their families, as well as the York County community.
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