The Associated Press identified the suspect in the shooting of three Pennsylvania police officers as Matthew James Ruth, 24, who allegedly opened fire Wednesday at a farm in rural York County before being killed by police.
Records show Ruth was being sought on stalking, trespassing, loitering and prowling at night in a domestic-related investigation that began a day earlier, according to court documents. The two officers who were wounded were taken to a hospital and remained in critical but stable condition, authorities said.
York County District Attorney Tim Barker and the Pennsylvania State Police said investigators were continuing to gather details and expected to provide a further update at 3 p.m. Thursday. The FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pennsylvania State Police are assisting local authorities in the investigation.
Gov. Josh Shapiro said at a news conference that he is praying for all involved and praised first responders for their work. "This is an absolutely tragic and devastating day for your county and for the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania," Shapiro said. "We grieve for the loss of life of the three precious souls who served this county, served this commonwealth and served this country. We continue to pray for the full recovery of those who are dealing with their wounds."
Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned the violence in a post on X, saying violence against law enforcement is "a scourge on our society and never acceptable." Bondi added that the state has the full support of the federal government.
The confrontation unfolded on a rural road in south-central Pennsylvania, not far from Maryland. Neighbors reported hearing multiple shots and seeing a helicopter arrive as law enforcement moved to secure the area. About 30 police vehicles lined roads bordered by a barn, a goat farm and soybean and corn fields in North Codorus Township, roughly 115 miles west of Philadelphia.
This incident comes just months after another York County officer was killed in the line of duty, a reminder of the risks faced by those serving in rural parts of the state.
Agents with the FBI and ATF, along with Pennsylvania State Police, continued to work with local investigators to establish a timeline of Ruth’s actions and the events leading to the shootout. The investigation remains active, and authorities urged the public to await official briefings for new details.
Authorities have not released a motive, and officials emphasized that information released so far is preliminary and subject to change as ballistics, surveillance and other investigative steps are completed. The community remains aritated as investigators collect evidence from the rural road and surrounding properties.
The department is expected to provide further updates as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available. Residents are asked to stay away from the scene to allow authorities to conduct their work. The case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by rural law enforcement in Pennsylvania and the broader national concern about violence against police officers.
