State Trooper Killed in Line of Duty During Shooting at Delaware DMV

WILMINGTON, DE - A Delaware State Police Trooper was fatally wounded during an active shooter incident at a Department of Motor Vehicles facility on Hessler Boulevard on Tuesday afternoon. The incident, which began shortly after 2:15 p.m., resulted in the death of the DSP Trooper, and the suspect, and minor injuries to several civilians.

According to preliminary reports, multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the scene following reports of an active shooter. At a subsequent press conference, Delaware State Police officials confirmed that the trooper was shot while attempting to push a victim out of harm's way. A New Castle County police officer then confronted and shot the suspect.

Both the injured trooper and the suspect were transported to local hospitals. The trooper succumbed to his injuries a short time later. His identity is currently being withheld pending full notification of his family. The suspect was also pronounced deceased at the hospital.

A second state trooper sustained a minor, non-gunshot-related injury during the response. Two civilian women, aged 40 and 35, were evaluated for minor injuries; one was transported to an area hospital while the other refused transport.

Following the initial reports, the Delaware Attorney General's office dispatched senior prosecutors to the scene to assist with the investigation. By 3:20 p.m., all DMV locations across the state were closed.

During the press conference, DSP Colonel William D. Crotty described the fallen trooper's final actions as those of a hero who sacrificed his life to save others. Delaware Governor Matt Meyer also addressed the tragedy.

"Today, we mourn the loss of a Delaware State Trooper who gave his life in the line of duty," Gov. Meyer stated. "He made the ultimate sacrifice to protect his fellow Delawareans, and our hearts are broken for his family. We are praying for them, their loved ones, and every state trooper as they grieve this sudden and unimaginable loss."

Governor Meyer continued, "Protecting the lives and livelihoods of Delawareans is our most fundamental responsibility, and moments like this underscore both the risks our first responders take and the courage they show every day. We are deeply grateful to the state and local law enforcement officers and emergency personnel whose professionalism and quick action helped prevent further harm."

Department of Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Josh Bushweller noted the timing of the tragedy, occurring just two days before Christmas. The Delaware State Police have requested privacy and support for the trooper's family during this time.