Who is Matthew James Ruth — A violent altercation in rural southern Pennsylvania on Wednesday ended with the deaths of three police officers and the suspected gunman, identified as 24-year-old Matthew James Ruth. Two additional officers were wounded and remain hospitalized in stable condition, according to law enforcement officials.
The deadly confrontation occurred as officers attempted to apprehend Ruth at a property in rural York County. Ruth was being sought in connection with a domestic-related investigation that began the day prior, court documents reveal. He faced multiple charges, including stalking, criminal trespassing, loitering, and prowling at night.
Authorities say officers arrived at the scene to serve an arrest warrant when gunfire erupted. Ruth was fatally shot during the incident. The names of the officers involved have not yet been publicly released, pending notification of their families.
“This is a dark day for law enforcement and for our community,” said a spokesperson from the Pennsylvania State Police. “Our hearts are with the families of those we’ve lost and with the officers still fighting to recover.”
Court records show Ruth had been under investigation for behavior tied to a domestic situation, the specifics of which have not yet been disclosed. Officials say more information is expected to be released following further investigation.
The two wounded officers are being treated at a local hospital and are expected to recover. The Pennsylvania State Police and other agencies are continuing to investigate the events that led to the fatal encounter.
This marks one of the deadliest law enforcement-related shootings in recent Pennsylvania history. Support services have been mobilized for the families of the fallen officers and the broader law enforcement community.
More details are expected to emerge as authorities piece together the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
