A Delaware state trooper was shot and killed Tuesday during a shooting at a Wilmington Department of Motor Vehicles office, prompting officials to call him a hero. The incident unfolded at 2 p.m. when an armed man entered the office and fired at the trooper who was working an overtime shift at the reception desk.
Shooting at Wilmington DMV
Cpl. Matthew T. “Ty” Snook, 34, was identified on Wednesday. He shoved an employee out of the way, an act that likely saved the employee’s life, before being shot again and later died at a local hospital. His quick actions saved the employee’s life, but the trooper sustained fatal injuries.
Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the shooting, including a New Castle police officer who confronted the gunman. The 44-year-old shooter was fatally shot during the confrontation. The officer’s swift response was credited with preventing additional casualties.
A woman who witnessed the incident reported that the trooper was shot at the DMV. NBC10’s Lili Zheng has the story. She described the chaos and the trooper’s bravery, noting the immediate danger faced by civilians.
Authorities have not yet publicly identified the gunman or disclosed a possible motive for the shooting. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities seeking additional information.
The incident serves as a reminder that troopers face danger even in routine work, said Joshua Bushweller, secretary of the state Safety and Homeland Security Department. His remarks highlighted the risks officers confront daily, even in seemingly low-risk settings.
“Two days before Christmas, we lost a hero, a dedicated member of the Delaware State Police family, who literally woke up this morning, put on his uniform like he did every day, and he went to work to serve the people of our state.”
Two other people were injured during the shooting, though not by gunfire. One was another state trooper and the other was a 40-year-old woman who was transported to a hospital. Neither injury was related to the gunman, and both individuals received medical care.
Delaware Gov. Matt Meyer praised the trooper as a hero, saying Tuesday that Snook gave the “ultimate sacrifice” in the line of duty. He emphasized the trooper’s dedication and selflessness, calling him a true public servant.
Snook was a Delaware native and a 10-year veteran of the Delaware State Police, according to a release. He attended the University of Maryland, where he was a member of the wrestling team. His service record reflected a commitment to public safety, and he was known for his professionalism.
He is survived by his wife and their 1-year-old daughter. The family has been deeply affected by the loss, grieving a beloved husband and father.
The Delaware State Police said: “He was a respected colleague, a trusted partner, and a beloved member of both the Delaware State Police and the community he served.” They also noted his professionalism and camaraderie, describing him as a valued colleague.
They added: “Our DSP family extends its deepest condolences to the Snook family. We are forever grateful to them for sharing ‘Ty’ with us and for the sacrifices they made in support of his service to the citizens of Delaware.” The statement underscored the collective loss felt by the department and the community.
An official fund established to support the family describes the officer as a “loving husband, a devoted father, and a deeply cherished friend.” The fund aims to honor his memory and assist his loved ones during this difficult time.
The fundraiser’s organizer wrote: “Those who knew him remember his steady presence, his kindness, and his unwavering commitment to the people he loved.” He was remembered for his steady presence and kindness, traits that endeared him to many.
“Family meant everything to Ty, and he worked every day to provide, protect, and be present for those closest to him.”
NBC Staff and The Associated Press contributed to the story.
The community has reacted with mourning and support for the Snook family. Local businesses and residents have offered condolences and assistance, showing solidarity with the family. Memorials and tributes have begun to appear across Wilmington.
The shooting has sparked discussions about officer safety and the need for protective measures at civilian facilities. Officials are reviewing protocols to prevent future incidents and improve officer safety.
Key Takeaways
- A Delaware state trooper was killed during a shooting at a Wilmington DMV, and the shooter was a 44-year-old man who was shot by a New Castle police officer.
- The trooper, Cpl. Matthew T. “Ty” Snook, 34, was a 10-year veteran, a Delaware native, and a former wrestling team member at the University of Maryland.
- The incident left two other people injured, and the investigation into the gunman’s motive remains open.
The Delaware State Police, the state government, and the community continue to honor the memory of Cpl. Snook while working to understand the circumstances that led to this tragic event. They remain committed to supporting the Snook family and ensuring officer safety for all.
