Three Officers Killed, Two Injured in York County Ambush: Shooter Identified as 24-Year-Old Matthew J. Ruth
NORTH CODORUS TOWNSHIP, Pa. — September 18, 2025 — A tight-knit Pennsylvania community is reeling after a tragic and violent confrontation left three police officers dead and two others critically wounded on Wednesday afternoon. The officers were attempting to serve a warrant at a farm in rural York County when gunfire erupted, marking one of the darkest days for law enforcement in the region’s recent history.
During a Thursday press conference, York County District Attorney Tim Barker formally identified the gunman as 24-year-old Matthew J. Ruth. However, Barker made it clear that after naming him once, he would refer to the assailant only as “the actor,” emphasizing the department’s priority: the fallen officers and their families.
“The focus today, and every day moving forward, will be on the heroes we lost — not the man who took them from us,” said Barker, his voice heavy with emotion.
The Fallen Officers
The Northern York County Regional Police Department (NYCRPD) confirmed the identities of the three officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty:
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Detective Sergeant Cody Becker
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Detective Isaiah Emenheiser
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Detective Mark Baker
All three were serving members of NYCRPD and were part of a unit tasked with executing a legal warrant at a private residence — a warrant believed to be connected to ongoing criminal investigations.
A fourth NYCRPD officer is among the two critically injured and remains hospitalized at WellSpan York Hospital, where both wounded officers are listed in critical but stable condition. Their names have not been publicly released at the request of their families.
In an official statement, NYCRPD said:
“We ask our community to keep these officers, their families, and their colleagues in your thoughts and prayers during this time of unimaginable grief. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
The Ambush
Sources close to the investigation have confirmed that officers were approaching the rural farm property in North Codorus Township when gunfire suddenly erupted from a concealed location. The “actor,” as officials are now referring to Ruth, opened fire without warning, striking five officers in a matter of seconds.
Multiple units from surrounding jurisdictions responded within minutes, and a prolonged exchange of gunfire ensued. Ruth was fatally shot at the scene during the confrontation with law enforcement.
Officials stated that the crime scene spans a wide area, including both the residential property and surrounding fields and outbuildings. It remains active as law enforcement continues to process evidence, reconstruct the timeline, and determine whether any accomplices or prior warning signs were overlooked.
State and Federal Response
Governor Josh Shapiro addressed the state in a solemn statement Thursday morning:
“We grieve for the loss of three precious souls who served this county, this Commonwealth, and this country. Their bravery will echo in our hearts forever. We continue to pray for the full recovery of those who are dealing with their wounds.”
Governor Shapiro also noted that this incident comes just months after Officer Andrew Duarte of York County was killed in the line of duty earlier this year.
Colonel Christopher Paris, head of the Pennsylvania State Police, confirmed that PSP has established a Major Case Team to lead the investigation. The task force is working closely with the York County District Attorney’s Office and other regional law enforcement agencies.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of the deceased and those who were wounded. There are simply no words that can assuage the grief this community is enduring,” Paris said. “The grief will be unbearable, but together we will bear it.”
No Ongoing Threat to the Public
Authorities stressed that the situation has been fully contained. With the shooter dead and the area secured, there is no longer any threat to public safety.
Nevertheless, officials have urged the public to remain away from the active investigation zone and have asked for patience as road closures and detours continue throughout the area.
Local school districts in North Codorus and surrounding communities have activated crisis response plans, including mental health support for students and staff affected by the tragedy.
Outpouring of Grief and Support
Law enforcement agencies across Pennsylvania — and the nation — have expressed their condolences and support for NYCRPD and the families of the victims.
Flags across state buildings have been ordered to half-staff, and makeshift memorials with flowers, candles, and messages of gratitude have begun appearing outside the NYCRPD headquarters and WellSpan York Hospital.
Municipal call coverage for the affected area is currently being handled by neighboring departments, with assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police and other allied agencies.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Authorities have indicated that the investigation is far from over, and it now extends to multiple locations across York County. Forensic teams are analyzing the crime scene, while digital forensic experts are examining the actor’s phone, computer, and social media activity for clues to motive and planning.
Investigators are also working to determine how the actor obtained his weapons, whether he had any known affiliations with extremist groups, and whether this ambush had been premeditated over a longer period.
A more detailed overview of findings is expected later Thursday or Friday.
Final Thoughts
The events of September 17, 2025, will long be remembered as one of the most painful in York County’s history. The loss of Detective Sergeant Cody Becker, Detective Isaiah Emenheiser, and Detective Mark Baker is not just a blow to their department, but to an entire community.
As their colleagues carry forward the mission of law enforcement, they do so with heavy hearts — remembering those who gave everything in the line of duty.
May their service be honored, and may their memories be a blessing.
🕯️ End of Watch: September 17, 2025 🕯️
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