NORTH CODORUS, Pa. (AP) — In a shocking turn of events, a suspected stalker, identified as Matthew James Ruth, ambushed police officers at his ex-girlfriend’s home in southern Pennsylvania, resulting in the deaths of three officers. This tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday afternoon when authorities responded to a call regarding Ruth's suspicious behavior.
The police arrived at the scene around 2:10 p.m. to find the door to the residence unlocked, despite the ex-girlfriend and her mother having secured it before leaving for their safety. Upon entering, officers were met with gunfire from Ruth, who was armed with an AR-style rifle equipped with a suppressor. According to York County District Attorney Tim Barker, Ruth opened fire, killing three officers instantly.
In the ensuing chaos, a gunfight erupted between Ruth and two responding officers outside the home. Tragically, a sheriff’s deputy was wounded during this exchange before police ultimately shot Ruth dead. The fallen officers, Detective Sgt. Cody Becker, Detective Mark Baker, and Detective Isaiah Emenheiser, all served with the Northern York County Regional Police Department.
Chief Dave Lash praised the bravery and dedication of the officers, stating, “Each of these men represented the best of policing. They served with professionalism, dedication, and courage.” Another officer who was injured in the incident is also part of the Northern York department, but the affiliation of the second wounded officer remains undisclosed.
Matthew James Ruth, 24, had a history of troubling behavior. Police were aware of Ruth’s presence at the home the night before the shooting, following a report from the ex-girlfriend's mother who spotted him peering into the house with binoculars. Furthermore, the ex-girlfriend had previously raised concerns about her vehicle being set on fire in August, suspecting Ruth's involvement.
Police had attempted to locate Ruth several times, visiting his home in Hanover, approximately 10 miles from the scene, on two occasions prior to the shooting. Witnesses noted that police took potential evidence from Ruth’s residence, but he managed to evade capture.
This tragic event marks one of the deadliest days for law enforcement in Pennsylvania this century, echoing a similar incident in 2009 when three officers were killed by a domestic violence suspect. As news of the shooting spread, community members gathered to pay their respects, holding American flags and saluting as police vehicles processed to the coroner's office.
Governor Josh Shapiro expressed the need for societal change, stating, “We need to help the people who think that picking up a gun, picking up a weapon is the answer to resolving disputes.”
Local residents reported hearing numerous gunshots, with one neighbor, Dirk Anderson, recalling the chaos as police and helicopters descended upon the area. The rural setting of North Codorus, nestled amidst farmland, now faces the stark reality of the violence that occurred.
In the wake of the shooting, neighboring police departments stepped in to assist as personnel from the Northern York County Regional Police Department grieved the loss of their colleagues. Memorials began to appear outside police headquarters, with community members leaving flowers in honor of the fallen officers.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those in law enforcement and the ongoing need for community support and mental health resources to address the underlying issues that lead to such violence.
As the investigation continues, the community remains united in mourning, reflecting on the sacrifices made by the brave officers who dedicated their lives to protecting others.
