Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania
End of Watch Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Add to My HeroesPaul Garmong Richey
Trooper Paul Richey was shot and killed when he and another trooper responded to a domestic disturbance call in Cranberry Township, Venango County, at 11:45 am.
Both troopers arrived at the scene and exited their vehicles. As they approached the house, a male voice called from a window for the Troopers to return to their cars. The troopers then ordered the man to show himself and at that point Trooper Richey was hit in the neck with a .30-30 rifle round fired from the window of the residence. The other Trooper immediately returned fire to provide cover to get to Trooper Richey.
Upon the arrival of additional troopers, two Troopers provided cover fire while additional troopers removed Trooper Richey from the scene. Trooper Richey was transported to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Northwest Hospital, Seneca, Pennsylvania, where he was pronounced dead.
The suspect then murdered his wife before committing suicide. Investigators found three guns in the bedroom: a .30-.30 Marlin rifle with a scope, a .22-caliber rifle with a scope and a 12-gauge shotgun.
Trooper Richey had served with the Pennsylvania State Police for 16.5 years. He is survived by his wife, son, and daughter.
Bio
- Age 40
- Tour 16 years, 7 months
- Badge 7201
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Rifle; .30-.30
- Offender Committed suicide
Most Recent Reflection
View all 365 ReflectionsTpr. Richey the loss of such a wonderful man and hero certainly shook our tight knit community. Twelve years later I still remember the radio call, the transmissions, the sirens and the looks on everyone's faces as we all responded that day thinking, "Is this real? Is this really happening right now?" You responded with honor, courage and integrity just as you had for your entire career that day. I remember the events that unfolded in the following days watching your wife and children as they walked into your funeral and how my heart was crushed for them. Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice and protecting our community.
FF/EMT Benjamin Whitehill
Seneca Fire Department
May 10, 2022
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