Law enforcement officials from across Bucks County joined more than 1,000 mourners in Chester County on Wednesday to honor the life of a state trooper who was killed in the line of duty.
The funeral service for Pennsylvania State Police Cpl. Timothy J. O’Connor Jr. was held at Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church.
Law enforcement officers from around the nation, the governor, community leaders, and residents gathered to remember O’Connor, 40, a 15-year veteran of the force who was fatally shot during a March 8 traffic stop in West Caln Township in Chester County.
Bucks County District Attorney Joe Khan and members of the Bucks County Detectives led a delegation, which included officers from Bensalem Township, Middletown Township, and other local departments.
The group traveled in a motorcade from Bucks County to Downingtown, a gesture organizers said showed the unity of the law enforcement community.
“We stand in solidarity with the family and colleagues of Cpl. Timothy O’Connor Jr. to honor a man who represented the very best of our profession,” Khan said. “His dedication to justice and his selfless service to the people of Pennsylvania set a standard for all of us in law enforcement.”
The fatal shooting took place after O’Connor responded to a report of an erratic driver in West Caln Township. According to investigators, as O’Connor approached the vehicle, the driver opened fire from inside, striking him. The gunman then exited the car, walked a short distance, and died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
O’Connor’s career with the state police began in September 2010. After graduating as part of the 131st Cadet Class in April 2011, he served in the patrol unit at Troop J, Avondale. He later spent six years in the Troop J Vice Unit before moving to the Embreeville Station in 2022. He was promoted to the rank of corporal in July 2022.
He is the 105th member of the Pennsylvania State Police to be killed in the line of duty.
Khan shared the condolences of his office to O’Connor’s wife, their young daughter, and the broader state police family.
“While we mourn this significant loss, we also remain inspired by his legacy of integrity and the lives he touched throughout his distinguished career,” Khan said.
Those wishing to support the O’Connor family may send donations to the Pennsylvania State Troopers Association (PSTA) at 3625 Vartan Way, Harrisburg, PA 17110. Checks should be made payable to the “Survivor’s Fund” with “O’Connor” included in the memo line. Online contributions are also being accepted.
