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State Trooper Shot & Killed In Huntingdon County, Suspect Dead

HESSTON (KDKA/AP) -- A Pennsylvania State Trooper was gunned down Friday evening in Huntingdon County, and a manhunt ensued for the suspected shooter.

A news release from Pennsylvania State Police indicates that Trooper Landon Weaver, 23, was shot and killed in Juniata Township around 6:30 p.m. He was responding to a PFA violation.

The remote area around where the shooting occurred was closed off while police officers on foot, in cars and in a helicopter searched for the trooper's killer.

State police posted a picture of 32-year-old suspect Jason Robison, calling him armed and dangerous.

Around 10:40 a.m. Saturday, state police reported Robison was dead.

Robison was killed by police during an encounter at a mobile home not far from where Trooper Weaver was killed. He reportedly refused orders and threatened officers on the scene.

He had been arrested more than a dozen times in the county, on charges that included making threats, assault, theft and driving on a revoked license. Robison last appeared in court on Dec. 16, when he was released on theft and driving charges after posting $10,000 bail.

Trooper Weaver enlisted in the Pennsylvania State Police in December of 2015. He becomes the 97th member of the Pennsylvania State Police to be killed in the line of duty.

His survivors include his wife.

Governor Tom Wolf released a statement on Trooper Landon's death:

"On behalf of all Pennsylvanians, Frances and I extend our deepest condolences and prayers to the family and friends of Trooper Weaver and all members of the State Police across Pennsylvania in this moment of tragedy. Landon will always be remembered for his bravery, his sacrifice, and his willingness to serve. The State Police are our best and bravest Pennsylvanians, who risk their lives to keep all of our families safe. I just spoke with Commissioner Tyree Blocker and have full confidence that the person who committed this senseless act of violence will be captured and brought to justice. As the search continues, all of our law enforcement officers involved are in the thoughts of all Pennsylvanians."

Wolf ordered all commonwealth flags on the Capitol Complex, at Commonwealth facilities, and all public buildings and grounds throughout the state to be lowered to half-staff in honor of Trooper Landon Weaver.  Flags shall remain lowered until sunset on Tuesday.

Pennsylvania State Troopers Association President Joseph R. Kovel issued a statement, reading in part: "Trooper Weaver is a brave hero who will forever be remembered for his ultimate sacrifice. We grieve the senseless loss of his life and pray for the safety of our brothers and sisters who continue to protect the commonwealth."

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