A Delaware State Police trooper was gunned down in an “execution-style” attack while helping customers at a Wilmington DMV office.
Story Snapshot
- Trooper Matthew “Ty” Snook, 34, was fatally shot while on duty at a DMV office on December 23, 2025
- Officials described the unprovoked attack as an “act of pure evil” with execution-style characteristics
- The shooting occurred during the holiday season while the trooper was assisting customers
- Community tributes honor Snook as a “loving” and dependable officer devoted to service
Trooper Shot While Serving the Public
Delaware State Police Trooper Matthew “Ty” Snook was fatally shot at approximately 2:00 PM on December 23, 2025, while performing routine duties at the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles on Boulevard East in Wilmington. The 34-year-old trooper was assisting a customer when a gunman opened fire in what witnesses described as an execution-style attack. The incident prompted an immediate active shooter alert and lockdown of the surrounding area with heavy police presence responding to secure the scene.
Unprovoked Attack During Holiday Season
Police officials characterized the shooting as an “act of pure evil,” emphasizing the unprovoked nature of the assault. The attack occurred during the Christmas holiday season, heightening the emotional impact on the trooper’s family and the law enforcement community. No prior interaction or provocation between the gunman and Trooper Snook was reported, making this a targeted ambush on an officer simply doing his job to serve Delaware citizens.
Watch: https://youtu.be/RgVVce35uw8?si=nUEr2Gw8WJWkKFJ5
Community Honors Fallen Hero
Tributes poured in for Trooper Snook, who was remembered as a “loving” and dependable officer devoted to his duties and family. Community members and fellow law enforcement officers praised his character and dedication to public service. The Delaware State Police and Governor held a full press conference on December 24, 2025, providing updates on the investigation while acknowledging the profound loss to the trooper’s family during the holiday season.
Tributes to ‘loving’ state trooper killed at DMV in ‘act of pure evil’ https://t.co/yfCBaFvQ6A pic.twitter.com/Hht543382G
— The Independent (@Independent) December 25, 2025
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing dangers faced by law enforcement officers even in seemingly routine civilian locations like DMV offices. The execution-style nature of the attack echoes broader concerns about targeted violence against police officers that has plagued departments nationwide. Such unprovoked assaults on officers serving the public represent attacks on the very foundations of law and order that keep our communities safe.
Sources:
https://abcnews.go.com/US/delaware-state-trooper-killed-shooting-dmv-suspect-dead/story?id=128661791
