SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY, Pa. — The tight-knit community of Susquehanna County is grappling with shock and grief following a deadly shooting in Thompson Township that claimed the life of 57-year-old Lori Wasko, a well-known and deeply cherished local resident. The suspect, 61-year-old Carmine Faino, Wasko’s neighbor, was later fatally shot by Pennsylvania State Troopers during a violent confrontation.
On Wednesday morning at approximately 11:00 a.m., Troopers Joseph Perechinsky and William Jenkins were dispatched to conduct a welfare check along Route 171 in Thompson Township after concerns were raised about Wasko’s safety. What began as a routine call quickly escalated into a deadly encounter.
According to official statements, upon arrival, troopers were met with gunfire from Faino, a man with a troubled history who had reportedly been involved in a prior home invasion case weeks earlier. Wasko was found fatally shot at the scene. In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, the troopers returned fire, killing Faino.
The incident has raised serious questions in the community about public safety and the criminal justice system’s handling of individuals with violent backgrounds. Local resident Nikki Creps, who knew Wasko personally, expressed profound sorrow and frustration in an interview with local media. “Lori was loved by everyone who knew her,” Creps said. “It breaks my heart that she’s gone. And honestly, it angers me that this man should have been behind bars weeks ago. The system failed us.”
Faino had reportedly been under investigation for a home invasion that took place earlier, but for reasons not fully explained, he remained free prior to this tragic event. Community members and officials alike are calling for a thorough review of the case and the circumstances that allowed Faino to remain at large.
Witness Dave E. Carr Jr. recalled narrowly escaping harm as bullets riddled police vehicles. “It was terrifying, but thankfully no one else was hurt,” he said.
Pennsylvania State Police have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with assistance from various law enforcement agencies to ensure a comprehensive examination of the events leading up to the shooting. They have stressed that there is no current threat to the public.
The death of Lori Wasko has sent ripples throughout Susquehanna County, a place where neighbors know each other by name and such violent incidents are rare. Vigils and memorials are being organized as the community comes together to mourn her passing and to support her family in this time of immeasurable loss.
Officials have yet to release detailed information about funeral arrangements, but friends and relatives have begun sharing memories that paint a portrait of a compassionate, kind-hearted woman who was an integral part of the community.
This tragic episode serves as a stark reminder of the challenges law enforcement faces daily and the critical importance of addressing mental health and criminal justice issues proactively. As Susquehanna County heals from this devastating loss, residents hope that lessons will be learned to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Authorities continue to urge anyone with additional information about the incident or the suspect to come forward.
The community remains united in grief, remembering Lori Wasko not only as a victim of a senseless act of violence but as a beloved friend, neighbor, and member of Susquehanna County whose memory will endure.