Another violent incident today resulting in loss of life, two hours from my former hometown Philadelphia, where I started my first job as a reporter right after college

 

Another violent incident today resulting in loss of life, two hours from my former hometown Philadelphia, where I started my first job as a reporter right after college. North Codorus Township is in York County, Pennsylvania.

Dispatchers received the call this afternoon.

Three officers dead; two wounded.

The alleged shooter is dead.

FBI and ATF on scene. 

Authorities are expected to release information on 9/18.

I can also call my former media colleagues and some lawyers and others who may still be in the state. There are some PA publications and news stations I trust more than others. I lived in PA for two decades and went to college.

3:22 p.m. PA Governor Josh Shapiro posted:

I’m with PA State Police Colonel Chris Paris in York County to give an update on the shooting that took place here this afternoon. 

At the press conference, Col. Paris said not many details would be released due to ongoing investigation. "No active threat " to the community. 

"The Pennsylvania State Police has been asked to convene a major case team to conduct the lead in this investigation, with the assistance and in collaboration and in partnership with the York County District Attorney."

4:04 p.m.:

5:03 p.m:

24-year-old Matthew James Ruth has been identified as the suspect. A criminal complaint charging Ruth with stalking, loitering, prowling at night and criminal trespass was filed. The officers were serving a warrant after being contacted by the mother of Ruth's ex girlfriend.

York County DA Tim Barker said they were still 

investigating. He added, "There is one motive though that is clear for everything, and that is the hateful scourge of domestic violence. That is what brought us here. That is what brought law enforcement here."

During the press conference, it was stated that investigators found Ruth's ex-girlfriend's family dog — a black Labrador — dead in the basement and that Ruth allegedly killed the dog.

York Dispatch had an article in April 2025 about another incident in February 2025 incident which resulted in the death of another 

"West York Police Officer Andrew Duarte died after being struck by friendly fire during February's hostage crisis at UPMC Memorial Hospital, said York County District Attorney Tim Barker.

"The hostage taker, Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz, was struck by an estimated 15 to 20 bullets, while a health care worker he was holding at gunpoint wasn't hit in the exchange of fire."