Governor Shapiro and PSP honor fallen trooper

Harrisburg, Pa. — Governor Shapiro and the Pennsylvania State Police paid tribute to fallen Trooper Jacques F. “Jay” Rougeau Jr. and honored all members who lost their lives in the line of duty during a memorial ceremony at PSP Headquarters this week.

The event marked the 119th anniversary of the department.

Governor Josh Shapiro spoke at the event, stating, "Our fallen troopers make the ultimate sacrifice for Pennsylvania — and while today we gather and honor their life in service, we must also reaffirm every day that we never, ever forget. The men and women of the Pennsylvania State Police go to work every single day to protect and serve our communities. My Administration is committed to ensuring our troopers and their families have the help and support they deserve from every corner of our Commonwealth."

Colonel Christopher Paris, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, expressed his humility and honor in paying tribute to Trooper Jacques Rougeau Jr. and the 103 other members who made the ultimate sacrifice. He stated, "Their dedication and service will always be remembered."

Trooper Rougeau, who served with the State Police for nearly three years, was fatally shot on June 17, 2023, while assigned to Troop G, Lewistown Station. He was 29 years old and enlisted in June 2020 as a member of the 160th cadet class.

During the ceremony, Colonel Paris presented the Pennsylvania State Police Cross to Trooper Rougeau's wife, an award given to the next of kin of members who lost their lives under honorable circumstances in the line of duty. Trooper Rougeau's name was added to the Pennsylvania State Police Memorial Wall, which now pays tribute to 104 members who died in service to the Commonwealth. The ceremony included reading the names of the fallen, a rifle salute, the playing of "Taps," and a moment of silence.

The Pennsylvania State Police, established by legislation signed into law by Governor Samuel W. Pennypacker on May 2, 1905, was the first uniformed police organization of its kind in the United States. From an initial force of 228 men, the department has grown to include 4,841 enlisted women and men, supported by over 1,700 civilian employees. It currently ranks as the 10th-largest police agency in the United States.

An online version of the PSP Memorial Wall, featuring photos and biographies of each member who died in the line of duty, can be accessed at here. Video and photos from the memorial ceremony are available here .