Suspect in York County Police Shooting Identified as 24-Year-Old Matthew Ruth; Officials Address Social Media Misinformation

NORTH CODORUS TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Authorities have identified the suspect in Wednesday’s deadly York County police shooting as 24-year-old Matthew J. Ruth, who was killed after opening fire on officers attempting to serve an arrest warrant.

The tragedy left three officers dead and two others critically wounded, marking one of the darkest days for law enforcement in the region’s history.

Officials also moved quickly to dispel misinformation spreading online, where an unrelated Hanover man—who shares the name “Matt”—was falsely accused of being the shooter. That individual has publicly stated he is alive, not 24 years old, and has no connection to the crime, urging people to stop sharing his photos. Authorities stressed the importance of relying on verified information from law enforcement and credible news outlets.

Troubling Behavior Before Shooting

Court documents outline Ruth’s disturbing behavior in the weeks leading up to the deadly encounter. According to an affidavit:

• On September 16, a woman reported a man in camouflage and carrying binoculars lurking on her property. Trail camera footage captured the suspect in her driveway, holding a scoped device.
• The woman’s daughter identified the man as Ruth, whom she had briefly dated. The image also showed Ruth with an AR-15 style rifle slung across his chest.
• Investigators linked Ruth to a vehicle fire on the property weeks earlier, though the victim initially declined to pursue charges.
• A black 2000 Ford Ranger pickup believed to be connected to Ruth was also spotted in the area.

Based on the evidence, police secured a warrant for stalking, loitering and prowling at night, and criminal trespass.

Deadly Shootout

On September 17, 2025, just after 2:10 p.m., officers from multiple agencies arrived at 1879 Haar Road to serve the warrant. Ruth opened fire, striking five officers.

• Three died at the scene.
• Two were airlifted in critical condition to trauma centers, including WellSpan York Hospital, which implemented heightened security protocols.

Police returned fire, killing Ruth during the exchange.

Community in Mourning

The incident has sent shockwaves through the York County community and across law enforcement agencies nationwide. Vigils are being planned to honor the fallen officers, while investigators continue piecing together the events that led to the confrontation.