Gunman identified in fatal shooting of Delaware State Police trooper Cpl. Matthew “Ty” Snook at DMV facility

A Delaware State Trooper was fatally shot at a Department of Motor Vehicles facility in Minquadale, New Castle County, on Tuesday afternoon, according to Delaware State Police.

Trooper Killed in DMV Shooting

Rahman Rose, 44, allegedly shot Corporal Matthew “Ty” Snook, a 10-year veteran of the force, at the DMV on Hessler Boulevard around 2 p.m. Rose, who had entered the facility as a customer, approached Cpl. Snook while he was at the reception desk and fired from behind.

Despite being wounded, Cpl. Snook reportedly acted to protect others, pushing a DMV employee to safety and urging him to flee before being fired upon again. Rose then permitted customers to exit the building while awaiting the arrival of additional law enforcement.

Upon their arrival, Rose engaged responding officers in a shooting. A New Castle County police officer ultimately shot and killed Rose through a window.

Did You Know? Corporal Snook was a graduate of Saint Mark’s High School and the University of Maryland, where he was a member of the wrestling team.

Cpl. Snook is survived by his wife and their one-year-old daughter. He was described by state police as “a dependable, professional, and committed trooper.”

Several minor injuries were reported during the incident. A 40-year-old woman was transported to a local hospital for non-gunshot related injuries, while a 35-year-old woman was evaluated for shortness of breath but declined transport. Another state trooper sustained a minor, non-gunshot related injury and did not require transport.

Expert Insight: Incidents like these underscore the inherent risks faced by law enforcement officers, even while stationed in seemingly routine locations. The swift response by both Delaware State Police and New Castle County officers likely prevented further casualties, but the loss of Cpl. Snook is a stark reminder of the sacrifices made in the line of duty.

The DMV facility will remain closed through next week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who shot Corporal Matthew Snook?

Rahman Rose, 44, shot Cpl. Snook at the DMV on Hessler Boulevard around 2 p.m. Tuesday.

What happened to Rahman Rose?

Rose was shot and killed by a responding New Castle County police officer after engaging officers in a shooting.

Was anyone else injured in the shooting?

A 40-year-old woman was taken to an area hospital for minor, non-gunshot-related injuries. A 35-year-old woman was evaluated for shortness of breath and refused transport. A second state trooper sustained a minor, non-gunshot-related injury.

As the community mourns the loss of Cpl. Snook, what steps can be taken to support law enforcement families during times of tragedy?

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