In Brief

Authorities have identified 24-year-old Matthew James Ruth as the man who allegedly shot dead three police officers and wounded two others in a violent confrontation in North Codorus Township, York County. The shooting occurred as officers were following up on a domestic-related investigation.

Key Points

  • Matthew James Ruth, 24, has been identified as the suspect in a shooting that killed three Pennsylvania police officers and injured two.
  • The incident took place in North Codorus Township, York County, during a follow-up to a domestic-related investigation.
  • Ruth opened fire on officers, resulting in his being fatally shot by police.
  • The identities of the officers and exact charges/investigative findings have not yet been fully disclosed.
  • State officials condemned the violence; investigations and legal procedures are continuing.

NORTH CODORUS TWP., Pa. — September 18, 2025 — A man identified as Matthew James Ruth, 24, has been named by law enforcement officials as the suspect in the fatal shooting that killed three police officers and wounded two more in York County. AP News+2Reuters+2

Background and Incident

On Wednesday afternoon, officers responded to North Codorus Township to follow up on a domestic-related investigation that began the day before. Authorities say Ruth opened fire on officers, killing three and critically injuring two others before being fatally shot by responding police forces. AP News+2Reuters+2

The location was rural, characterized by barns, farmland, and fields. Witnesses reported hearing dozens of gunshots. AP News+2Reuters+2

Officials have not yet released the names of the fallen officers or those wounded, nor have they confirmed which specific police agencies were involved. Investigators are still working to piece together the full timeline and motive. The Times of India+3AP News+3Reuters+3

Reactions & Statements

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro described the incident as “a tragic loss of life,” saying it was one of the deadliest days for law enforcement the state has seen. Attorney General Pamela Bondi called the violence against police “a scourge on our society.” AP News+2Reuters+2

One local resident, who lives near the shooting scene, told reporters, “I heard about 30 shots go off. Then helicopters came flying in, lots of sirens, police cars blocking the roads.” AP News+1

What Is Confirmed vs. What’s Alleged

  • Confirmed:

  • Matthew James Ruth is identified as the suspect. AP News

  • Three police officers were killed; two others were critically injured. Reuters+1

  • Ruth was killed by police in the exchange of gunfire. AP News+1

  • Alleged / Under Investigation:

  • Whether the investigation was domestic in origin. Reuters+1

  • Whether Ruth was being served a warrant (some reports suggest so) and what exact charges he faced. New York Post+2The Times of India+2

  • The identities of the victims and the officers involved. AP News+1

    • Conclusion & What’s Next

    Investigations are ongoing. State police along with local law enforcement are collecting more evidence, reviewing body-cam and possibly other video, eye-witness accounts, and forensic information to clarify the timeline and motive. Legal authorities are expected to release further details about any charges that may have been pending against Ruth before the shooting. Community members are also seeking answers and solace after what many are calling a deeply tragic event.

    The families of the officers are likely to be involved in memorial services, and state officials have pledged support. Authorities have also called for calm and cooperation as they wrap up the investigation.

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