Full Breakdown
Delaware State Trooper Killed in DMV Shooting: A Tragic Incident
12/25/2025, 12:16:22 AM
Overview of the Incident
On December 23, 2025, a Delaware state trooper, Corporal Matthew T. "Ty" Snook, was fatally shot during an active shooter incident at the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office on Hessler Boulevard in Wilmington. The shooting occurred around 2 p.m. when a 44-year-old male suspect entered the DMV as a customer and approached Snook, who was working an overtime assignment at the reception desk. After shooting Snook, the suspect shot him again as Snook attempted to push a nearby employee to safety. Responding officers confronted the shooter, who was subsequently shot and killed.
Key Details of the Shooting
The Delaware State Police confirmed that both Snook and the shooter were transported to local hospitals, where they were pronounced dead. In addition to Snook, two other women and a second trooper sustained minor, non-gunshot-related injuries during the incident. The DMV office was closed following the shooting, and all DMV locations across Delaware were shut down for the day.
Background on Corporal Matthew T. Snook
Corporal Snook, 34, was a ten-year veteran of the Delaware State Police and was known for his dedication to public service. He was a Delaware native, having graduated from Saint Mark's High School and the University of Maryland, where he was a member of the wrestling team. Snook is survived by his wife and their one-year-old daughter. Colleagues and community members remembered him as a dependable and professional officer who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect others.
Official Responses and Community Reactions
Delaware Governor Matt Meyer described the shooting as "an act of pure evil" and praised the heroism of Snook and other officers involved in the response. He stated, "What happened today was an act of pure evil, and if not for the heroism of several troopers and other officers, the consequences could have been so much worse." Meyer also emphasized the risks that law enforcement officers face daily.
Senator Chris Coons and Representative Sarah McBride expressed their condolences and highlighted the tragic nature of the incident occurring just days before Christmas. Coons remarked, "This is devastating for their family, their fellow officers, and our entire state," while McBride noted the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by law enforcement.
Criticism & Opposition
While the incident has drawn widespread sympathy and support for the fallen officer, some community members have raised concerns about gun violence and the safety of public spaces. The shooting has reignited discussions about the need for enhanced security measures in locations where law enforcement is routinely present.
What's Next
The Delaware Department of Justice is conducting an investigation into the shooting, with assistance from the FBI. All DMV locations in Delaware are expected to remain closed until December 29, 2025, as the community mourns the loss of Corporal Snook and reflects on the implications of this tragic event.
Verbatim Quotes
- “What happened today was an act of pure evil, and if not for the heroism of several troopers and other officers, the consequences could have been so much worse.” — Gov. Matt Meyer
- “We lost a brother, a son, a best friend, a coach, a husband and a father,” — Col. William D. Crotty, Delaware State Police
- “His last actions were that of a hero, a hero who saved lives today while sacrificing his own.” — Col. William D. Crotty
This tragic incident underscores the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the profound impact of gun violence on communities, especially during the holiday season.
