Two Troopers Shot, Suspect Killed in Pennsylvania Chase/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ A shoplifting suspect was killed and two Pennsylvania state troopers were shot following a high-speed chase. One trooper remains hospitalized in serious condition while the other has been released. Two women face theft and drug charges after fleeing in a van with the suspect.
Pennsylvania Trooper Shooting Incident Quick Looks
- High-speed chase followed retail theft near Chambersburg
- Suspect Lamar Lorenzo Foy, 31, shot and killed in gunfire
- Two troopers injured; one remains in serious condition
- One trooper treated and released from hospital
- Two Baltimore women arrested; charged with theft and drug offenses
- Van search uncovered THC, powder, scales, and cash
- Chase ended after spike strips stopped the van
- Incident occurred near Maryland state line on I-81
- Governor Shapiro praised troopers’ bravery in public statement
Deep Look
Suspect Killed, Two Troopers Shot During High-Speed Chase in Pennsylvania
CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. (AP) — A violent encounter unfolded near the Maryland state line Wednesday evening after a retail theft escalated into a high-speed police pursuit that left one suspect dead and two Pennsylvania state troopers wounded. One trooper remains hospitalized in serious condition, while the other was treated and released, officials said Thursday.
The suspect, Lamar Lorenzo Foy, 31, of Baltimore, was fatally shot when he allegedly opened fire on pursuing officers, who returned gunfire.
Shoplifting Call Sparks Pursuit
The incident began shortly after 6 p.m. when Pennsylvania State Police responded to a call about a retail theft at a sporting goods store near Chambersburg, roughly 85 miles northwest of Baltimore. Authorities say Foy and two female accomplices stole more than $1,000 worth of clothing before fleeing in a van with Maryland license plates.
State troopers caught up with the suspects and initiated a high-speed chase heading southbound on Interstate 81, spanning more than 10 miles. The pursuit came to a halt after officers deployed spike strips, forcing the van to a stop.
Gunfire Erupts After Chase Ends
According to a court affidavit, two women exited the vehicle and were taken into custody without incident. But Foy allegedly remained in the van and opened fire with a handgun, striking two state troopers.
In response, officers returned fire, fatally wounding Foy. Police confirmed that he died at the scene.
“The troopers returned fire and Foy died as a result,” the probable cause affidavit stated.
Victims and Suspects Identified
One of the troopers shot remains hospitalized in serious condition, while the other has since been discharged after receiving treatment. Neither of their names has been released.
The two female suspects, identified as Amir Loren Swift and Giani Jaida McGowan, both 21 and from Baltimore, face multiple charges. They were formally charged with retail theft and drug-related offenses.
Evidence Found in Van
A search of the suspects’ van yielded significant evidence linking them to drug activity. Investigators discovered:
- THC products
- Plastic bags filled with unidentified powder
- Scales
- Cash
Authorities believe the items are consistent with drug distribution. The nature and composition of the powder have not been publicly confirmed as of Thursday.
Court and Legal Proceedings
The two women are being held at Franklin County Jail without bail. A jail official confirmed that neither suspect has legal representation listed yet. Attempts to contact a phone number associated with Swift were unsuccessful.
Court records suggest they will likely face additional charges pending further investigation into their role in the incident.
Governor Responds
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro posted a statement on X (formerly Twitter) following the incident, expressing support for the wounded officers and gratitude for the bravery of law enforcement.
“Pennsylvania’s law enforcement officers are the very best of us — running towards danger every day to keep our communities safe,” Shapiro wrote.
“Lori and I are praying for the injured troopers, and we ask all Pennsylvanians to join us.”
Ongoing Investigation
State Police continue to investigate the shooting, including:
- Ballistic testing on recovered weapons
- Toxicology and lab analysis of substances found in the van
- Surveillance footage from the store
- Review of police dashcam and body camera footage
Authorities are also determining whether Foy had any prior criminal history in Maryland or Pennsylvania that might explain his willingness to engage in a deadly shootout.
Community Impact
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the Chambersburg community and among Pennsylvania’s law enforcement agencies. As the investigation unfolds, local leaders have called for unity and support for the officers and their families.
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