A Delaware state trooper has been remembered as a dependable professional and a devoted family man after he was shot and killed at a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office this week.
A Final Act of Bravery
Corporal Matthew “Ty” Snook, 34, from Hockessin, Delaware, was fatally wounded on Tuesday, 23 December 2025. He was working an overtime assignment at a DMV facility near Wilmington when a 44-year-old gunman opened fire. According to state police, Snook's last act was to push a nearby employee out of harm's way before he was shot again.
Both Snook and the assailant later died in hospital. The gunman was shot by another officer who responded to the scene. Authorities have not yet publicly named the shooter or suggested a motive for the attack.
A Life of Service and Family
Corporal Snook was a ten-year veteran of the Delaware State Police. A native of the state, he was a University of Maryland graduate and a former member of the university's wrestling team. He leaves behind his wife and their one-year-old daughter.
In an official statement, the Delaware State Police praised Snook as a “dependable, professional, and committed trooper,” a trusted partner, and a beloved member of the community. The force extended its deepest condolences to his family, stating: “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.”
Community Mourns an 'Act of Pure Evil'
Delaware Governor Matt Meyer condemned the violence at a news conference on Wednesday, 24 December. “What happened today was an act of pure evil,” he said, adding that the heroism of several troopers and officers prevented even worse consequences.
A fundraising campaign established to support Snook's family described him as a loving husband, devoted father, and deeply cherished friend. “Those who knew him remember his steady presence, his kindness, and his unwavering commitment to the people he loved,” the organiser wrote. “Family meant everything to Ty, and he worked every day to provide, protect, and be present for those closest to him.”
In the wake of the tragedy, the Delaware DMV closed all its offices statewide. All locations, except the site of the shooting, were scheduled to reopen on Monday.
