THOMPSON, PA — August 7, 2025 — Authorities have identified 57-year-old Lori Wasko as the victim in a deadly and chaotic shooting that unfolded late Thursday morning in Susquehanna County. The gunman, who also died during the confrontation with police, has been identified as her next-door neighbor, 61-year-old Carmine Faino.
The incident, which occurred in the typically peaceful borough of Thompson, left two Pennsylvania State Troopers injured, an EMT hurt, and a community in mourning.
Unprovoked Violence Claims Innocent Life
According to investigators, the violence began around 11:15 a.m. on Thursday, when Faino opened fire on Wasko outside her home along Route 171. The attack is believed to have been unprovoked.
Wasko’s boyfriend, who witnessed the horrifying moment, immediately contacted emergency services.
Troopers Ambushed at the Scene
State Troopers Joseph Perechinsky and William Jenkins were the first to arrive on the scene. As they exited their patrol vehicles, Faino ambushed them with a rifle, unleashing a barrage of gunfire.
- Trooper Perechinsky was hit twice in the chest.
- Trooper Jenkins suffered gunshot wounds to both arms.
Two additional troopers arrived shortly after and were able to rescue their injured colleagues from the active scene. Both officers were airlifted to local hospitals, where they remain in stable condition.
Standoff Ends in Fatal Police-Involved Shooting
During the ensuing standoff, Faino was seen sitting on top of a propane tank, raising fears of a potential explosion.
Negotiators attempted to talk him down, but when he was deemed to be an imminent threat, law enforcement fatally shot Faino to protect the public and first responders.
EMT Injured During Response
An EMT responding to the original emergency call was also injured. His vehicle was struck by gunfire, causing him to crash off the roadway. His condition has not yet been released.
Governor Visits Wounded Trooper
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, speaking from Bucks County, acknowledged the tragedy and later visited Trooper Perechinsky at Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton.
“He acted decisively. He acted thoughtfully. And the work he did today exemplifies the absolute best of the Pennsylvania State Police,” Shapiro stated. “His actions saved lives—his partner’s, and others who may have been in harm’s way.”
Community Devastated by Wasko’s Death
Friends and neighbors describe Lori Wasko as a beloved and compassionate woman.
Nikki Creps, a close family friend, expressed outrage that Faino had not previously been detained despite prior troubling behavior.
“He should’ve been locked up weeks ago after a home invasion,” Creps said. “Now, an innocent woman is dead.”
Eyewitness Recounts Terrifying Moments
Dave E. Carr Jr., a bystander, narrowly avoided injury during the gunfire.
“A bullet missed my head by inches,” Carr said. “The troopers came under heavy fire. Their vehicles were riddled with bullets. It was unreal.”
Investigation Continues
Law enforcement officials are continuing to investigate the full scope of the incident. The crime scene remains active, and a press briefing is scheduled at the Pennsylvania State Police Barracks in Dunmore.
This tragedy has shaken the small town of Thompson and raised renewed concerns about how known violent individuals are monitored and managed in rural communities.
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