Although the incident occurred in Wilmington, the entire state of Delaware is in mourning after Corporal Grade One Matthew T. “Tye” Snook died in the line of duty during a shooting at the Karen L. Johnson Division of Motor Vehicles on Hessler Boulevard. Snook was on an overtime assignment at DMV on December 23 when he was shot.
Snook began working as a trooper on March 6, 2015, a member of the 88th Delaware State Police Recruit Class. Following his completion of the academy and field training, he was assigned to Troop 6 at Price’s Corner. He served on C-shift throughout his career and was known as dependable, professional and committed.
Snook graduated from St. Mark’s High School and the University of Maryland. While in college, he was on the wrestling team. He is survived by his wife and one-year-old daughter.
“He was a respected colleague, a trusted partner, and a beloved member of both the Delaware State Police and the community he served,” a press release read. “Our DSP family extends its deepest condolences to the Snook family. We are forever grateful to them for sharing Ty with us and for the sacrifices they made in support of his service to the citizens of Delaware.”
Delaware State Police are still investigating the incident. According to police, Rahman Rose, 44, whose last known address was Wilmington, entered DMV as a customer. Snook was stationed at the reception desk and early investigation revealed that Rose approached Snook from behind and shot him with a handgun. After being shot, Snook pushed a DMV employee out of the way and told them to run as Rose continued firing multiple rounds at him.
Rose allowed customers to leave the building and remained inside waiting for law enforcement to respond. As officers arrived, Rose fired multiple rounds at them as they approached the building. A New Castle County officer saw Rose and shot him through the window from outside the building.
Snook died at a hospital later. A second trooper sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was not taken to the hospital. A 40-year-old woman was taken to an area hospital for minor non-gunshot-related injuries. A 35-year-old woman was evaluated for shortness of breath but declined transport to the hospital.
Rose was taken to an area hospital where he died.
Delaware State Police thanked the public, law enforcement, partnering agencies and the community for their overwhelming support shown during the dignified transfer of Snook on Christmas Eve.
According to a press release, as Snook was escorted with honor, members of the community lined roadways, stood in silence and displayed messages of gratitude and support.
“The outpouring of support shown today serves as a powerful reminder of Cpl/1 Snook’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Colonel William D. Crotty, Superindent of DSP said. “On behalf of the Delaware State Police, I thank the public and our law enforcement partners for standing with Ty’s family and with our agency during this heartbreaking time. We continue to ask for your prayers for his wife, daughter and the entire family.”
Governor Matt Meyer also expressed his sympathy.
“Cpl/1 Matthew “Ty” Snook was a dedicated Delaware State Trooper whose courage and commitment to protecting others was evident every day he put on his uniform. He was also a husband and father,” Meyer said., “In his final moments, he showed the kind of bravery most of us can only imagine, reflecting the highest values of service. As we hold his wife, his little girl, the law-enforcement community, and all who loved him close in our hearts, may we honor Ty’s legacy by striving to build a world worthy of the sacrifice he made.”
Secretary Joshua Bushweller of the Department of Safety and Homeland Security stated that it was a devastating time for the state.
“We are mourning the tragic loss of one of our own Delaware State Troopers, Cpl/1 Matthew “Ty” Snook, who was murdered in the line of duty. This is a devastating time for Ty’s family, for the men and women of the Delaware State Police and for our entire law enforcement community across the state. Cpl/1 Snook made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the people of Delaware, answering a call to protect others, never knowing it would be his last. His courage, commitment and selflessness will never be forgotten. WE ask all Delawareans to keep Ty’s family, friends and fellow troopers in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
At a candlelight vigil in his honor, Snook’s widow, Lauren, thanked everyone for their support.
“He lived his life with integrity and heart, and that’s how we choose to remember him here tonight,” she said. “You’ll hear everyone say that ‘Ty was a good man’ if you didn’t know him. And I’m sorry if you didn’t. But if you did, hopefully you smile when you hear how good he was.”
On Monday, the non-profit “Tunnels to Towers” announced they would pay off the Snook’s mortgage.
Services honoring the life and service of Snook will take place on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the University of Delaware Bob Carpenter Center, 631 South College Avenue, Newark. A public visitation will take place from 9 AM to 1 PM. At the conclusion of visitation, a pass and review will be conducted by all uniformed emergency services personnel in attendance. A memorial service will then immediately follow. At the conclusion of the service, final honors will be presented outside the Bob Carpenter Center with all ceremonial events expected to conclude at approximately 3 PM. Interment will be private and closed to the public and media.
DSP is still investigating the incident. Detectives ask anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to contact Detective D. Grassi at 302-365-8441 or via email. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 (1-800-847-3333).
