YORK COUNTY, Pa. — Matthew J. Ruth Charged in Stalking Case Prior to Deadly Police Ambush That Killed Three Officers, Injured Two
YORK COUNTY, Pa. — Authorities have officially charged Matthew J. Ruth, a 24-year-old man from Hanover, in connection with a stalking complaint filed by his former girlfriend, Elizabeth Zumbrum, just hours before Ruth ambushed law enforcement officers in a deadly shootout. The violent confrontation ultimately led to the deaths of three police officers and critical injuries to two more in North Codorus Township.
The ambush, which took place on the morning of September 17, 2025, has been described by officials as one of the deadliest single-day attacks on law enforcement in York County’s history.
Timeline: From Stalking Complaint to Deadly Confrontation
The events leading to the bloodshed began on the evening of September 16, when Elizabeth Zumbrum contacted local authorities to report that her ex-boyfriend, Matthew Ruth, had been harassing and stalking her. According to police documents, Zumbrum stated that Ruth had been making unwanted contact, loitering near her residence, and sending her threatening messages.
As a result of the report, law enforcement officials issued a warrant for Ruth’s arrest early the next morning on suspicion of criminal stalking and harassment.
Around 8:00 a.m. on September 17, a team of officers from multiple York County agencies approached a property on Oak Hollow Road in North Codorus Township to serve the arrest warrant. As officers arrived, Ruth allegedly opened fire from inside the residence without warning, ambushing them with a high-powered firearm.
The Attack: A Calculated Ambush
Authorities believe Ruth had prepared for a confrontation with law enforcement. The property where the incident occurred reportedly had multiple firearms, surveillance equipment, and ammunition. According to investigators, Ruth may have been monitoring the officers as they approached and deliberately waited to initiate the attack.
Three officers were killed almost instantly during the initial burst of gunfire. Two others were critically wounded and transported to WellSpan York Hospital, where they remained in critical but stable condition as of Thursday morning.
Law enforcement officers returned fire, and Ruth was fatally shot during the firefight.
Victims of the Shooting
As of this writing, the names of the fallen officers have not been released publicly, pending notification of their families. All five officers involved were described by colleagues as dedicated public servants, some with years of experience and deep roots in the York County community.
“They were heroes,” said Sheriff Mark Reynolds. “They went to serve a warrant and never came home. Our hearts are shattered.”
Flags across Pennsylvania have been ordered to half-staff by Governor Josh Shapiro, who also issued a statement expressing sorrow and support for the families of the victims.
Investigation & Fallout
While Ruth is now deceased, York County authorities formally filed the stalking charges posthumously to complete the legal timeline and document the chain of events that led to the ambush.
The Pennsylvania State Police, in coordination with federal agencies, is conducting a full-scale investigation into the ambush. Authorities are also reviewing Ruth’s digital communications, social media activity, and any prior criminal history, seeking to determine whether any signs of escalation were missed.
Early reports suggest that Ruth had no major prior convictions, but may have displayed warning signs in the weeks leading up to the attack, particularly in his obsessive behavior toward Zumbrum.
“This was an individual who clearly crossed a line,” said District Attorney Karen Lang. “We will be reviewing all elements of this case to learn from it and to ensure that we take every possible step to protect potential victims before tragedy strikes.”
Community in Mourning
York County is now grappling with tremendous grief, as communities across the region honor the lives lost. Candlelight vigils, memorial services, and fundraising efforts have sprung up in support of the officers’ families and the two who remain hospitalized.
The York County Law Enforcement Memorial Fund has launched an emergency appeal, and support has poured in from across the state and nation.
“It is heartbreaking,” said a resident at a local vigil. “You hear about these things, but when it happens here — in your backyard — it’s almost too much to bear.”
Calls for Change: Protecting Victims and Officers
The case has also reignited debate about stalking laws, early intervention in domestic disputes, and officer safety during warrant services. Advocates are urging lawmakers to strengthen protections for stalking victims and improve threat assessment protocols for suspects exhibiting violent or unstable behavior.
Local police departments are also reviewing their tactical procedures in light of the deadly ambush.
“Every officer goes to work knowing the risks,” said Sgt. Evan Holbrook. “But we must also ensure they have every tool and piece of information necessary to protect themselves — and the public.”
Conclusion
The tragic chain of events — starting with a woman’s plea for help and ending with a deadly ambush — has left York County grieving and searching for answers. As investigators work to untangle the timeline and motivations behind Matthew J. Ruth’s actions, the community is united in honoring the fallen, supporting the survivors, and vowing to prevent such a devastating loss from happening again.
Anyone struggling with stalking, harassment, or domestic violence is urged to contact local law enforcement or reach out to a crisis hotline. Help is available. Lives can be saved.
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