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Delaware Trooper Killed in Unprovoked DMV Shooting; Suspect Identified
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A delaware state trooper was tragically killed in an unprovoked attack at a Division of Motor Vehicles office in New Castle on Tuesday, marking the first line-of-duty death for the force in four years. The incident has sparked an outpouring of grief and support for the fallen officer and his family.
Suspect Named, Details Emerge
Delaware State Police on Friday identified the suspect as Rahman Rose, a 44-year-old resident of Wilmington. According to police reports, Rose opened fire on Corporal Grade One Matthew T. “Ty” Snook at a DMV reception desk before being fatally shot by law enforcement.
The shooting unfolded as Rose approached Cpl. Snook from behind and discharged a handgun multiple times. Demonstrating extraordinary bravery, Snook reportedly pushed a DMV employee to safety before being struck again. Rose then awaited the arrival of responding officers, engaging them in a shootout while deliberately avoiding targeting civilians within the facility.
“Rose allowed customers to leave the building and remained inside waiting for responding law enforcement,” authorities stated in a press release. A New Castle County police officer ultimately shot and killed Rose after observing him through a window.
Multiple Injuries Reported
Along with Cpl. Snook’s death, the shooting resulted in three othre injuries. A second state trooper sustained non-life-threatening wounds, and two other individuals suffered injuries not related to gunfire. The inquiry into the motive behind the attack remains ongoing.
This tragic event represents the first line-of-duty killing of a Delaware law enforcement officer since the death of Delmar police Cpl. Keith Heacook in 2021. The Delaware State Police had not experienced a line-of-duty death as 2017, when Cpl. Stephen Ballard was killed in a shooting at a bear Wawa.
Remembering Corporal Snook
Cpl. Snook, a 10-year veteran of the Delaware State Police, was a Hockessin resident and a devoted family man, leaving behind a wife and a 1-year-old daughter. he joined the force on March 6, 2015, as part of the 88th Delaware State Police Recruit Class and was assigned to Troop 6 at Prices Corner, where he served on C-shift throughout his career.
Colleagues described Snook as “a dependable,professional,and committed trooper.” A lifelong Delawarean,he was a graduate of Saint Mark’s High School and the University of Maryland,where he competed on the wrestling team.
“[Snook] loved his community. He served with honor and integrity,and his life was cut short by senseless violence. His last actions were that of a hero; a hero who saved lives today while sacrificing himself,” delaware State Police Colonel William Crotty remarked during a press conference Tuesday night.
National Response and Support
the shooting has garnered national attention, prompting an outpouring of support for cpl. Snook’s family. Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy initiated a fundraiser selling merchandise to benefit the family, pledging to match all funds raised. A link to the fundraiser can be found here: Related
