A Pennsylvania law enforcement source has confirmed that a Facebook account showing far-left leanings belonged to Elks. At the top of the account it states, “It’s not my fault if reality is Marxist.” One post stated, “I don’t argue with people John Brown would’ve shot.” John Brown was a 19th-century abolitionist who was executed for his role in a failed raid at the Harper’s Ferry federal armory. His name was the namesake for the John Brown Gun Club and its spinoffs, which are violent far-left groups. 

Publicly available photos from his Facebook account include phrases such as “Forever Comrade,” “Free Palestine,” “No war but class war,” and “No Borders, No Cops, No Cages.”  

A neighbor of Elks told local news that she did not know him well but remembered driving his child to school. “I drive a school bus for a living, so I did drive his child a couple years ago to school, so I did know who he was.” Elks reportedly lived around 500 feet from where the shooting took place. 

Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens, Acting Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, said in a statement, “This is a tragic day for all of us. We have lost a dear member of our family, a hero and member of the Pennsylvania State Police. Our hearts remain with Corporal O’Connor’s wife, daughter, and family. We ask for everyone’s continued prayers to help them during this devastating time.”

Governor Josh Shapiro said, “Pennsylvania tragically lost one of our finest when State Police Corporal Tim O’Connor was killed in the line of duty. My heart breaks for Corporal O’Connor’s wife Casey, their young daughter, and their entire family. Lori and I mourn with the Pennsylvania State Police family and with all of our law enforcement partners. I’ve directed flags across our Commonwealth to be lowered in honor of Corporal O’Connor. May his memory be a blessing.”