Full Breakdown
Delaware State Trooper Matthew "Ty" Snook Killed in DMV Shooting
12/25/2025, 5:52:52 AM
Tragic Incident at the DMV
On December 23, 2025, Corporal Grade One Matthew T. "Ty" Snook, a 34-year-old Delaware State Trooper, was fatally shot while working an overtime assignment at the Karen L. Johnson Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in Wilmington. The incident occurred around 2 p.m. when a 44-year-old gunman entered the DMV and approached Snook at the reception desk, opening fire. Despite being shot, Snook managed to push a nearby employee to safety before being shot again. He later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital. The shooter was also killed by responding officers.
Background on Corporal Snook
Matthew Snook was a dedicated member of the Delaware State Police, having served for ten years since joining the force in March 2015 as part of the 88th Recruit Class. A native of Hockessin, Delaware, Snook graduated from Saint Mark’s High School and the University of Maryland, where he was a member of the wrestling team. He is survived by his wife and their one-year-old daughter. Colleagues described him as dependable, professional, and committed to serving the community.
Official Statements and Community Response
Delaware Governor Matt Meyer characterized the shooting as an "act of pure evil" and praised Snook's heroism, stating, "He made the ultimate sacrifice protecting his fellow Delawareans." Meyer also noted that the consequences could have been far worse without the quick actions of Snook and other officers. The Delaware State Police expressed their condolences, stating, "We lost a brother, a son, a best friend, a coach, a husband, and a father."
In the wake of the tragedy, a "Help a Hero" fundraiser was initiated to support Snook's family, which has already raised significant funds. The community has shown an outpouring of support, with tributes and memorials appearing at the DMV and police barracks.
Criticism and Opposition
While the incident has drawn widespread sympathy, some community members have expressed concerns about gun violence and the safety of public spaces. Local resident Sharon Clay remarked on the senselessness of the violence, highlighting the shock felt by those who witnessed the event.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
As of now, authorities have not publicly identified the shooter or disclosed a possible motive for the attack. Additionally, reports vary regarding the number of injuries sustained by bystanders, with some sources indicating that two other individuals were treated for non-gunshot-related injuries.
What's Next
In response to the shooting, all DMV offices in Delaware were closed until December 29, 2025, to allow employees to process the tragedy. Investigations into the incident are ongoing, with support from the Delaware Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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.” — Delaware Governor Matt Meyer
- “We lost a brother, a son, a best friend, a coach, a husband and a father,” — Col. William Crotty, Superintendent of Delaware State Police
- “His last actions were that of a hero, a hero who saved lives today while sacrificing his own.” — Col. William Crotty, Superintendent of Delaware State Police
The tragic loss of Corporal Matthew "Ty" Snook serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in their daily duties and the profound impact of violence on communities.
