NORTH CODORUS TOWNSHIP, Pa. — September 18, 2025 — A small farming community in York County is reeling in shock and grief after a violent confrontation left three police officers dead and two others critically wounded on Wednesday afternoon. According to Pennsylvania State Police, the officers were attempting to serve a warrant at a farm in North Codorus Township when gunfire erupted, sparking one of the deadliest days for law enforcement in the region’s history.
At a Thursday morning press conference, York County District Attorney Tim Barker confirmed that the gunman was 24-year-old Matthew J. Ruth. In a somber statement, Barker noted that he would refer to the individual only once by name, afterward calling him “the actor” — a deliberate choice to keep the focus on the officers who lost their lives and the families now forced to endure unimaginable pain.
Officers Killed in the Line of Duty
The Northern York County Regional Police Department (NYCRPD) identified the three officers killed during the warrant service as:
- Detective Sergeant Cody Becker
- Detective Isaiah Emenheiser
- Detective Mark Baker
A fourth NYCRPD officer was among the two critically wounded in the exchange of gunfire. Both injured officers remain hospitalized at WellSpan York Hospital, where medical teams describe their condition as critical but stable.
In a statement issued late Wednesday, the department expressed its grief and called on the community to rally around the fallen:
“We ask our community to keep these officers, their families, and their colleagues in your thoughts and prayers during this time of unimaginable grief.”
Out of respect, NYCRPD administrative offices have been closed. Neighboring law enforcement agencies, with the support of the Pennsylvania State Police, are covering municipal calls to ensure continued public safety.
A State in Mourning
The impact of the tragedy quickly reached the state level. Governor Josh Shapiro addressed Pennsylvanians in a moving statement, calling it a devastating day for York County and for the Commonwealth as a whole:
“We grieve for the loss of three precious souls who served this county, this Commonwealth, and this country. We continue to pray for the full recovery of those who are dealing with their wounds.”
Shapiro also reminded the public that York County has already endured recent loss, noting that the shooting comes only months after the death of Officer Andrew Duarte, who was also killed in the line of duty earlier this year.
Colonel Christopher Paris, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, confirmed that a Major Case Team has been convened to lead the investigation. Working closely with the York County District Attorney’s Office, state police are coordinating a multi-agency response.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of the deceased and those who were wounded,” Paris said. “There are simply no words that can assuage the grief this community is enduring. The grief will be unbearable, but together we will bear it.”
The Fatal Exchange
Authorities confirmed that Ruth, the warrant subject, was fatally shot by police during the confrontation. While the precise circumstances of the shootout remain under investigation, officials stressed that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The aftermath left a sprawling and complex crime scene across multiple locations in York County. Law enforcement said investigative teams will be working “through the night and into the coming days” to collect evidence, interview witnesses, and piece together the sequence of events that led to the tragedy.
Community in Shock
The loss of three respected detectives has shaken North Codorus Township, a largely rural community unaccustomed to large-scale violence. Residents described the unfolding situation on Wednesday as surreal, with sirens, helicopters, and a heavy law enforcement presence flooding the area.
Faith leaders, community organizations, and public officials have begun planning vigils and support services for the families of the officers, while neighboring police departments have pledged to stand by NYCRPD in the weeks and months to come.
As the investigation continues, the York County community is left to mourn — united in grief but determined to honor the lives of those who gave their last full measure of service in the line of duty.
