Delaware State Police Concludes Investigation into DMV Fatal Shooting of Cpl Matthew Ty Snook

State of DE - The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit has issued a final update regarding the murder of Cpl/1 Matthew T. "Ty" Snook. The incident occurred on December 23, 2025, at the Karen L. Johnson Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) facility located at 2230 Hessler Boulevard in New Castle. Investigators have determined that Cpl/1 Snook was the victim of a targeted attack against law enforcement.

The investigation identified Rahman Rose as the suspect responsible for the incident. Rose previously resided in Connecticut but had recently stayed in the Wilmington area without a permanent address.

Leading up to the event, Rose stated he believed police were targeting him. He posted anti-police content on social media and expressed a belief that he was a victim of "gang stalking."

Detectives found no evidence that Rose acted in conjunction with any group. While Rose had limited contact with Delaware law enforcement prior to the incident, none of those interactions involved Cpl/1 Snook.

There was no evidence of a prior relationship or dispute between the two men. Based on the evidence, detectives concluded the attack was deliberate and targeted at law enforcement personnel.

The handgun used in the attack was legally purchased by Rose in Connecticut in 2021. Rose was not prohibited from purchasing or possessing weapons at that time and had a limited criminal record.

On the morning of December 23, 2025, Rose entered the DMV at approximately 11:30 a.m. He sat in the driver services area briefly before exiting. He returned at 1:56 p.m. and obtained a queue ticket from the welcome desk where Cpl/1 Snook and a DMV employee were stationed. There was no interaction between Rose and the victims at that time.

Rose took a seat in the waiting area. Approximately three minutes later, he ambushed Cpl/1 Snook from behind the welcome desk. Rose fired several rounds from a concealed handgun, striking Cpl/1 Snook over a glass partition. Cpl/1 Snook shielded the DMV employee from harm before sustaining further injuries.

Rose subsequently allowed several customers to leave the building while he remained inside. He appeared to wait for responding law enforcement.

The investigation revealed that Rose only fired additional shots at responding officers. At approximately 2:07 p.m., an officer from the New Castle County Police Department shot Rose through a window.

Rose was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The Delaware State Police expressed gratitude for the support received during the investigation. The agency described Cpl/1 Snook as an exemplary Trooper and devoted family man. His actions reflected a commitment to protecting others with bravery and integrity.