Two Pennsylvania State Police troopers wounded in a Franklin County shootout in October 2025 were awarded the department’s Purple Heart on Monday, turning a violent high-speed pursuit into a solemn moment of recognition at a Harrisburg ceremony.
At Bishop McDevitt High School, Trooper Thomas R. Pack and Trooper Lucas C. Amarose received the Pennsylvania State Police Purple Heart along with departmental commendations. Lt. Col. George L. Bivens praised their conduct as actions that “went above and beyond” the agency’s mission, and the program also honored several Troopers of the Year and past Purple Heart recipients, according to ABC27.
The Chase That Led To The Honors
The awards trace back to an Oct. 8, 2025 call for a reported retail theft at the Dick’s Sporting Goods on Lincoln Way East in Guilford Township. State police said the suspects fled, a pursuit followed, and spike strips were used to disable the vehicle. A male occupant then opened fire, hitting Pack and Amarose, before troopers returned fire and fatally wounded the suspect, as reported by FOX29.
Medical Response And Recovery
Both wounded troopers were airlifted to WellSpan York Hospital. Pack was treated and released, while Amarose underwent multiple surgeries after suffering gunshot wounds to his elbow and pelvis. A nearby physician, Dr. Vincent Barnhart, provided aid to the injured troopers until EMS arrived, the awards ceremony recap noted, per ABC27.
A Statewide Recognition
The Pennsylvania State Police use the annual awards program to publicly honor members wounded or killed in the line of duty and to spotlight acts of valor across the force. The department has repeatedly staged similar ceremonies at venues such as Bishop McDevitt High School, according to the Pennsylvania State Police newsroom.
Legal Aftermath
Two female passengers in the van were taken into custody at the scene, and police said they would face charges connected to the theft and related matters, though specific counts were not immediately detailed, FOX29 reported. State police said there was no ongoing threat to the public, and investigators continue to process evidence from the scene.
Monday’s ceremony offered a formal show of support from state police leadership and local officials as Pack and Amarose continue to recover. Family members, coworkers, and community supporters gathered to acknowledge the risks troopers face on seemingly routine calls and to mark the officers’ survival and service.
