What should have been a normal afternoon at the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles near Wilmington turned into a horrific scene when gunfire erupted inside the facility. Patrons waiting for appointments heard shots and screams as confusion spread through the crowded DMV, sending people scrambling for cover and fleeing to safety. Witnesses described scenes of panic and terror as law enforcement and civilians alike were thrust into a violent confrontation in a place normally associated with paperwork and licenses.

Police, including troopers from the Delaware State Police, responded within minutes after reports of an active shooter. Officers set up a command post outside the DMV and began evacuating frightened civilians, prioritizing the safety of families, children, and elderly visitors. The swift response by multiple agencies underscored the urgency and danger of the situation as authorities prepared to confront the threat inside the building.

The shooter, a 44‑year‑old man, entered the DMV as a customer and approached Corporal Matthew “Ty” Snook, 34, who was sitting at the reception desk while working an overtime assignment. The suspect opened fire, striking Snook. Despite his injuries, Snook courageously pushed a DMV employee out of harm’s way before being shot again, an act credited with preventing further casualties.

Responding officers engaged the shooter during the confrontation. A New Castle County Police officer or Delaware State Police member (reports indicate law enforcement returned fire) shot and killed the suspect. Both the trooper and the gunman were transported to a nearby hospital, where they were pronounced dead. Additional injuries at the scene were non‑gunshot related, involving minor trauma among some patrons and an officer evaluated for non‑fatal injuries.

News of Snook’s death reverberated throughout Delaware and nationally. Officials, including Governor Matt Meyer, condemned the act and honored Snook’s bravery and sacrifice, calling the attack an “act of pure evil.”  Snook, a 10‑year veteran of the Delaware State Police and a University of Maryland alumnus, was remembered as dependable, professional, and devoted to his family. He is survived by his wife and their 1‑year‑old daughter, and memorial funds have been established to support his grieving family.