VICTIM IDENTIFIED : Tragic Shooting in North Codorus Township, PA: Three Officers Killed, Two Critically Injured

Tragic Shooting in North Codorus Township, PA: Three Officers Killed, Two Critically Injured

North Codorus Township, Pa. — September 18, 2025 — A grim tragedy unfolded on Wednesday afternoon in York County when five police officers were shot while attempting to serve a warrant at a farm in North Codorus Township. The Pennsylvania State Police confirmed that three officers lost their lives in the line of duty, while two others remain hospitalized in critical but stable condition at WellSpan York Hospital.

The incident has sent shockwaves throughout the community and the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, marking one of the deadliest law enforcement attacks in recent memory for the region.

The Incident and Immediate Aftermath

Law enforcement agencies converged on the rural property in North Codorus Township shortly after receiving intelligence on the suspect. The officers were serving a warrant related to an ongoing investigation when the situation escalated into a deadly gunfight.

Among the officers shot were members of the Northern York County Regional Police Department (NYCRPD), which swiftly issued a statement mourning the loss of three of its own. The NYCRPD confirmed the identities of the fallen officers as:

Detective Sergeant Cody Becker
Detective Isaiah Emenheiser
Detective Mark Baker

In addition to the three officers killed, two others, including a fourth NYCRPD officer, sustained critical injuries and were rushed to WellSpan York Hospital. Authorities report that their condition remains critical but stable.

Identification of the Suspect

During a press conference held on Thursday, York County District Attorney Tim Barker formally identified the shooter as 24-year-old Matthew J. Ruth. District Attorney Barker made a point to refer to Ruth as “the actor” after naming him once, emphasizing the focus on honoring the fallen officers and their families rather than giving further notoriety to the suspect.

Authorities confirmed that Ruth was fatally shot by law enforcement officers during the confrontation, effectively ending the immediate threat. The shooting has prompted a major investigation coordinated by the Pennsylvania State Police Major Case Team in collaboration with the York County District Attorney’s Office.

Community and Official Responses

Governor Josh Shapiro expressed profound sorrow over the incident, describing Wednesday as a “devastating day” for York County and the entire Commonwealth. In his statement, Governor Shapiro said, “We grieve for the loss of three precious souls who served this county, this Commonwealth, and this country. We continue to pray for the full recovery of those who are dealing with their wounds.”

The Governor also acknowledged the painful recurrence of such violence in the region, referencing the earlier death of Officer Andrew Duarte of York County earlier this year, who was also killed in the line of duty.

Pennsylvania State Police Colonel Christopher Paris reiterated the department’s commitment to the investigation and support for the families affected, saying, “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. The grief will be unbearable, but together we will bear it.”

Impact on the Northern York County Regional Police Department

In the wake of the tragedy, the NYCRPD administrative offices have been closed indefinitely. To ensure continued public safety, neighboring police departments, alongside the Pennsylvania State Police, are assisting in covering municipal calls and maintaining law enforcement presence in the region.

The department appealed to the community for support and prayers during this difficult time, stating, “We ask our community to keep these officers, their families, and their colleagues in your thoughts and prayers during this time of unimaginable grief.”

Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety

The investigation into the shooting is complex and ongoing, with authorities reporting that it now spans multiple locations throughout York County. Law enforcement has deployed significant resources, and the crime scenes remain active as investigators work to piece together the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Officials have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to public safety at this time. A more detailed update on the investigation’s progress and findings is expected later on Thursday.

Remembering the Fallen

Detective Sergeant Cody Becker, Detective Isaiah Emenheiser, and Detective Mark Baker are being remembered as dedicated public servants who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting their community. Their loss is deeply felt not only by their families and colleagues but also by the entire York County community.

This tragic event serves as a solemn reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face every day and the importance of community solidarity in the face of such loss.

Summary

Date: Wednesday afternoon, September 17, 2025
Location: Farm in North Codorus Township, York County, PA
Victims: Five police officers shot
- Three officers killed: Detective Sergeant Cody Becker, Detective Isaiah Emenheiser, Detective Mark Baker
- Two officers critically injured and hospitalized
Suspect: Matthew J. Ruth, 24, fatally shot by police
Authorities Involved: Northern York County Regional Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, York County District Attorney’s Office
Current Status: Investigation ongoing, no public safety threat
Community Impact: Deep grief and mourning, statewide support from officials