On December 23, a gunman entered the Wilmington Department of Motor Vehicles and fatally shot a police officer, setting off a tense shootout that left the community in shock. The incident unfolded at about 2 p.m. on Hessler Boulevard in New Castle, a location that had never before been the scene of such violence.
Incident Details
At the time of the shooting, Corporal Grade One Matthew ‘Ty’ Snook was stationed behind the reception desk, working an overtime shift. Troopers and other law enforcement officers were dispatched to the DMV following an active shooter report. According to the initial investigation, Rahman Rose, 44, entered the building, approached Snook from behind, and fired a handgun that struck the officer.
Response and Injuries
After the first shot, Snook managed to push a DMV employee out of the way and shouted for the employee to run, even as Rose continued to fire at him. Rose allowed customers to exit the building but remained inside, continuing to shoot at approaching officers. A New Castle County police officer, positioned outside the DMV, fired a shot through a window and struck Rose, bringing the gunfight to a close.
Statement from Delaware State Police
Snook was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Meanwhile, Rose was also taken to a medical facility, where he succumbed to his wounds. The Delaware State Police released a statement describing Snook as a native Delawarean, a graduate of Saint Mark’s High School and the University of Maryland, where he wrestled, and a respected member of both the police force and the community.
Investigation and Witness Appeal
The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit continues to investigate the incident. Detectives are urging anyone who witnessed the event or has relevant information to contact Detective D. Grassi at (302) 365-8441 or [email protected]. Information can also be provided through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
Officer and Shooter Background
The statement highlighted Snook’s role as a trusted partner and beloved colleague, noting that he is survived by his wife and a one-year-old daughter. It also mentioned that a second trooper sustained non-life-threatening injuries and did not require hospitalization. Additionally, a 40-year-old woman was taken to the hospital for minor, non-gunshot related injuries, and a 35-year-old woman was evaluated for shortness of breath but declined transport.
While the article does not provide details about Rahman Rose’s motives, it notes that he remained inside the building after allowing customers to leave, continuing to fire at law enforcement until he was shot by a police officer. Rose later died in the hospital.
Key Takeaways
- Corporal Matthew ‘Ty’ Snook was fatally shot at the Wilmington DMV on December 23.
- The shooter, Rahman Rose, was shot by a police officer and later died in hospital.
- The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is actively investigating and seeking witnesses.
The tragic loss of Corporal Snook has left a void in the Delaware State Police and the Wilmington community. As investigators work to piece together the events of that afternoon, the focus remains on honoring Snook’s legacy and ensuring that such a violent incident never recurs. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local authorities.
