Heroic Delaware State Police Cpl. Matthew “Ty” Snook gave his life protecting civilians from a cold-blooded gunman at a DMV office, embodying the selflessness conservatives cherish in law enforcement.
Story Snapshot
- Cpl. Matthew Snook, a 10-year veteran, was shot from behind while working overtime at New Castle DMV on December 23, 2025.
- Gunman Rahman Rose, 44, allowed customers to flee but fired at responding officers, who neutralized the threat.
- Snook heroically shoved a DMV employee to safety before succumbing to his wounds.
- Community honored Snook with a procession on December 24, lining roads with gratitude messages.
The Ambush at New Castle DMV
State Police Cpl. Matthew Snook worked an overtime shift at the New Castle DMV reception desk on Tuesday afternoon, December 23, 2025. Rahman Rose, 44, from Wilmington, entered as a customer. Rose approached Snook from behind and shot him with a handgun. State police detailed this sequence in a news release issued Friday, December 26.
Snook’s vigilance on an ordinary day turned deadly in seconds. This attack underscores the dangers officers face daily, even in routine public service roles. Conservatives value such dedication to public safety amid rising threats from unchecked crime.
Delaware State Police say DMV gunman let customers leave, fired at approaching officers https://t.co/tc4X1tRt8s pic.twitter.com/L2ACwAxRU7
— The Independent (@Independent) December 26, 2025
Snook’s Final Act of Bravery
Rose continued firing at Snook after the initial shot. Snook pushed a DMV employee out of harm’s way and ordered them to run. Investigators noted Rose then permitted customers inside the building to leave safely. This selective mercy highlights the gunman’s calculated intent.
Snook’s actions prioritized innocent lives, aligning with conservative principles of heroism and protection of the vulnerable. His sacrifice prevented further casualties in a chaotic scene. Such stories remind us why strong support for law enforcement remains essential against criminal elements.
Swift Response Ends the Threat
Rose fired multiple rounds at law enforcement officers approaching the DMV building. A New Castle County police officer returned fire through a window from outside. The officer struck Rose, who later died at a hospital. This rapid neutralization protected responding personnel and the public.
President Trump’s emphasis on backing the blue has empowered officers to act decisively, reducing risks from armed assailants. The incident demonstrates effective policing in high-stakes encounters, a priority for communities tired of soft-on-crime policies.
The shooting occurred just before Christmas, amplifying the tragedy for Snook’s family and colleagues. Authorities continue investigating, urging witnesses to contact detectives with information.
Community Pays Tribute to Fallen Hero
On Wednesday, December 24, 2025, residents lined roadways to honor Snook. They displayed messages of gratitude as a procession of troopers, police officers, and firefighters escorted his body from the state medical examiner’s office to a funeral home.
Delaware State Police Superintendent William Crotty stated the outpouring reinforced that Snook’s service endures. Snook, known as “Ty,” served 10 years with distinction. This unity reflects conservative values of community solidarity and respect for those who protect us. In an era of attacks on police, such support fortifies the thin blue line.
