Wilmington, DE – A Delaware State Police trooper was killed in the line of duty Tuesday afternoon after a shooting inside the Karen L. Johnson Division of Motor Vehicles in Wilmington, prompting a large law enforcement response and an ongoing homicide investigation.
According to Delaware State Police, the shooting occurred around 2:00 p.m. at the DMV located at 2230 Hessler Boulevard. Authorities say Ronathan Rose, a 44-year-old Wilmington man, allegedly entered the DMV posing as a customer and approached Cpl/1 Matthew S. Snook, who was working an overtime assignment at the reception desk.
Investigators say Rose allegedly shot Cpl/1 Snook multiple times with a handgun from behind. Despite being wounded, Snook reportedly pushed a DMV employee out of harm’s way and directed others to flee the building. Rose allegedly remained inside the DMV as officers responded and reportedly fired additional shots toward law enforcement approaching from outside.
Police say a New Castle County officer shot Rose through a window from outside the building. Rose was taken to a nearby hospital, where he later died.
Cpl/1 Snook was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
A second trooper sustained non-life-threatening injuries and did not require hospitalization. Authorities said a 40-year-old woman was hospitalized with non-gunshot-related injuries, while a 35-year-old woman was evaluated for shortness of breath and declined transport.
The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit continues to investigate. Detectives are asking witnesses or anyone with video or information to contact Detective D. Grassi at (302) 365-8441 or daniel.grassi@delaware.gov, or to contact Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
Victim and witness support services are available through the Delaware Victim Center at 1-800-VICTIM (1-800-842-8461).
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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