Survivalist Sought in Trooper's Murder

Eric Frein accused in ambush of two Pennsylvania troopers
By John Johnson,  Newser Staff
Posted Sep 16, 2014 4:31 PM CDT
Survivalist Sought in Trooper's Murder
This undated photo shows Eric Matthew Frein, 31, of Canadensis, Pa.   (AP Photo/PennDOT via Pennsylvania State Police)

Police in Pennsylvania are hunting for a 31-year-old survivalist and expert marksman accused of killing one state trooper and wounding another. The suspect is Eric Frein, who lives with his parents in Canadensis, about 20 miles from where the troopers were shot outside their barracks in Blooming Grove, reports USA Today. "He made statements about wanting to kill law enforcement officers and to commit mass acts of murder," said State Police Commissioner Frank Noonan. Frein became a suspect after someone walking a dog spotted a jeep that apparently got stuck in a pond about two miles from the barracks, reports Philly.com.

Police found camouflage paint and military gear inside the vehicle, and quickly traced it to Frein. They also found spent shell casings that matched those used in the shooting at the home of Frein's parents, reports CNN. Authorities say the gunman used a high-powered rifle similar to an AK-47. Noonan described the 6-1, 165-pound Frein as a survivalist who should be considered armed and dangerous. The suspect's father tells Philly.com that Frein "doesn't miss." The troopers were shot during a shift change from a wooded area across from the barracks. (More Pennsylvania stories.)

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