A Delaware State Police trooper was gunned down in cold blood while working an overtime shift at a DMV office, highlighting the constant dangers our law enforcement officers face even in routine civilian settings.
Story Snapshot
- State Police Cpl. Matthew “Ty” Snook shot and killed at New Castle DMV by customer Rahman Rose
- Rose allowed civilians to escape before engaging responding officers in gunfight
- Trooper heroically protected DMV employee during attack, telling them to run
- Community honors fallen 10-year veteran with massive procession
Trooper Murdered While Serving Community
State Police Cpl. Matthew Snook was working an overtime assignment at the New Castle DMV reception desk on Tuesday afternoon when Rahman Rose, 44, of Wilmington, entered as a customer and approached him from behind. Rose then shot the unsuspecting trooper with a handgun in what appears to be an unprovoked attack on law enforcement.
This tragic incident underscores the reality that our police officers face potential deadly threats even during routine community service assignments.
Delaware State Police say DMV gunman let customers leave, fired at approaching officers https://t.co/tc4X1tRt8s pic.twitter.com/L2ACwAxRU7
— The Independent (@Independent) December 26, 2025
Hero’s Final Act Saves Innocent Lives
Despite being mortally wounded, Trooper Snook demonstrated the selfless courage that defines our finest law enforcement officers. He pushed a DMV employee out of harm’s way and told them to run to safety.
Rose continued firing at the fallen trooper before allowing other customers to leave the building. This heroic final act likely saved multiple innocent lives and exemplifies the protective instinct that drives our men and women in blue.
Gunman Engages Police in Deadly Standoff
After clearing civilians from the DMV office, Rose turned his weapon on responding law enforcement officers, firing multiple rounds as they approached the building.
A New Castle County police officer shot Rose through a window from outside the building, ending the threat. Rose later died at a hospital from his injuries. The swift response by backup officers prevented further casualties and brought justice for the fallen trooper.
Community Honors Fallen Warrior
Trooper Snook, known as “Ty” to friends and colleagues, served Delaware with distinction for ten years. On Christmas Eve, community members lined roadways displaying messages of gratitude as a procession of troopers, police officers, and firefighters escorted his body from the state medical examiner’s office to a funeral home.
Delaware State Police Superintendent William Crotty emphasized that the overwhelming community support serves as a reminder that Snook’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Investigation Continues
Authorities continue investigating the shooting and have requested anyone with relevant information or witnesses to contact detectives. The motive behind Rose’s unprovoked attack on Trooper Snook remains unclear.
This senseless killing represents another stark reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face daily while protecting and serving their communities, often paying the ultimate price for their dedication to public safety.
