NORTH CODORUS TOWNSHIP, Pa. — September 18, 2025 — A routine warrant service turned deadly in York County on Wednesday when five police officers were shot during a confrontation at a farm property. Authorities confirmed that three officers were killed, two remain hospitalized in critical but stable condition, and the suspected gunman was fatally shot by law enforcement. The tragedy has left the county and state reeling.
York County District Attorney Tim Barker identified the suspect as 24-year-old Matthew J. Ruth, though he emphasized the focus would remain on the fallen officers rather than the shooter. Ruth was killed during the exchange of gunfire. Investigators said the warrant service quickly escalated into violence, though the details of what triggered the shooting have not yet been released. Officials confirmed that the investigation is expected to span several days as multiple crime scenes are examined.
The Northern York County Regional Police Department (NYCRPD) named the three fallen officers as Detective Sergeant Cody Becker, Detective Isaiah Emenheiser, and Detective Mark Baker. Another NYCRPD officer was among the two critically wounded. In a statement, the department described the loss as “a time of unimaginable grief” and asked the community to keep the families in their prayers. Neighboring departments and Pennsylvania State Police have temporarily taken over local coverage while NYCRPD administrative offices remain closed.
Governor Josh Shapiro responded to the tragedy, calling it a devastating day for both York County and the Commonwealth. “We grieve for the loss of three precious souls who served this county, this Commonwealth, and this country,” he said. Shapiro also noted that the incident comes only months after Officer Andrew Duarte was killed in the line of duty, adding that the state continues to stand behind law enforcement and their families in this time of sorrow.
Pennsylvania State Police Colonel Christopher Paris confirmed that a Major Case Team has been assigned to lead the investigation, working alongside the York County District Attorney’s Office. He expressed condolences to the families and emphasized the weight of the loss. “The grief will be unbearable, but together we will bear it,” Paris said. Officials stressed there is no ongoing threat to public safety and that the community remains secure.
The investigation has expanded to multiple locations throughout York County, with significant resources deployed to reconstruct the events that led to the deadly standoff. Authorities said further updates will be shared as more evidence is gathered, but for now, the focus remains on honoring the fallen and supporting the families left behind.