SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — On Tuesday, the second trooper involved in last Thursday's ambush in Susquehanna County was released from the hospital.
It was a special moment outside of a Scranton hospital to honor him and support his recovery.
A crowd started to form around 12:30 p.m. Tuesday outside of Geisinger CMC in Scranton, and by 1:00 p.m., everyone was lined up to see Trooper Perechinsky walk out of those doors.
Local law enforcement, the SWAT team, and Pennsylvania State Police all gathered outside of Geisinger CMC to show their respect and support for State Trooper Perechinsky.
Those who lined up tell us the big turnout comes as no surprise.
"That's what we're about. You know, we're a family, and when something like this happens, we come together. We support each other," Archbald Police Department Chief Tim Trently told 28/22 News.
Trooper Perechinsky was in the hospital recovering after he and his partner were ambushed in Susquehanna County on August 7.
Both troopers were shot twice while responding to a shooting that killed 57-year-old Lori Wasko in Thompson Township.
Trooper Perechinsky is beloved among the ranks, PSP captain having this to say about him.
"He's a diligent trooper, an aggressive trooper, he does the right thing when it matters. He shows compassion and humanity to everyone he meets. If I could mold a trooper, it'd be trooper Perechinsky as well as trooper Jenkins," PSP Captain Michael Walsh said.
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Even more messages of solidarity and encouragement are being sent trooper Perechinsky's way.
"Thanks for what you do, thanks for what you did. You're a hero to us, and you're our brother, and we love you for that," Chief Trently explained.
"Thank you for your service, and god bless you. Hope you heal soon, and we get you back to work soon," Lackawanna County Commissioner Chris Chermak stated.
Looking to the future, trooper Perechinsky's brothers in arms will wait for his return.
"They have a long road ahead. A lot of physical therapy, some surgeries scheduled, but we're confident that they'll get back to full duty one day, and we appreciate their attitudes and their effort. It's inspiring," Captain Walsh continued.
Local, county, and state partners are hoping the show of support will help fuel troopers Perechinsky and Jenkins' road to recovery.
