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Tragic Shooting Claims Lives of Three Law Enforcement Officers

Scene of police activity in North Codorus Township after a shooting.

North Codorus Township, Pennsylvania, October 19, 2025

News Summary

On September 17, a shooting in North Codorus Township left three law enforcement officers dead and two critically injured. The incident, linked to a domestic investigation, led authorities to respond swiftly as the community remains on alert amid an ongoing investigation.

North Codorus Township, Pennsylvania — On Wednesday, September 17, a tragic shooting incident in North Codorus Township resulted in the deaths of three law enforcement officers and critically injured two others. The shooting was reported to York County 9-1-1 at approximately 2:10 p.m. Officers were responding to a “police incident” when gunfire erupted.

In total, five law enforcement officers were shot; three were killed, and two were critically injured in the attack. The critically injured officers were transported to WellSpan Hospital in York, where they were reported to be in critical but stable condition.

The shooter has been identified as Matthew Ruth, 24, from Hanover, Pennsylvania. Authorities confirmed that the shooter is deceased. The incident was linked to a domestic-related investigation that began the day before the shooting commenced. A woman had previously reported to police that her ex-boyfriend was stalking her from a nearby cornfield. It was from this cornfield that Ruth opened fire on the officers serving a warrant at a farmhouse.

In response to the shooting, numerous police and emergency medical services (EMS) units were dispatched to the scene. Following the incident, local authorities advised schools in the Spring Grove School District to shelter in place as a precaution. Additionally, WellSpan Hospital temporarily went into lockdown to manage the treatment of the injured officers.

The area surrounding Haar Road and Emig Road remains closed for ongoing investigation, which is being led by the Pennsylvania State Police. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis expressed the need for community support through prayers and emphasized adherence to police directions during the unfolding situation.

Key Details of the Incident

  • Date of Incident: September 17
  • Time of Incident: Approximately 2:10 p.m.
  • Location: North Codorus Township, Pennsylvania
  • Casualties: Three officers killed, two critically injured
  • Shooter Identified: Matthew Ruth, 24, Hanover, Pennsylvania
  • Response: Numerous police and EMS units dispatched
  • Hospital: Injured officers transported to WellSpan Hospital, York
  • Status of Critically Injured Officers: Critical but stable condition
  • Investigation Status: Led by Pennsylvania State Police

Background Context

This tragic incident follows reports of a stalking case involving Ruth’s ex-girlfriend, which alerted local authorities to his behavior. Following the shooting, a significant law enforcement presence was deployed to ensure public safety and manage the situation. The community remains on alert as investigations continue to uncover more details about this shocking event.

FAQ

What happened in North Codorus Township?

On Wednesday, September 17, three law enforcement officers were shot dead, and two others were critically injured in a shooting incident.

What time did the shooting occur?

Reports of the shooting came into York County 9-1-1 at approximately 2:10 p.m.

How many officers were affected?

Five law enforcement officers were shot: three fatally and two critically injured.

What is the status of the injured officers?

The critically injured officers were transported to WellSpan in York, where they were reported to be in critical but stable condition.

Who was the shooter?

The shooter was identified as Matthew Ruth, 24, from Hanover, Pennsylvania.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Details
Date September 17
Time 2:10 p.m.
Location North Codorus Township, Pennsylvania
Officers Affected Three killed, two critically injured
Shooter Matthew Ruth, 24, Hanover, Pennsylvania
Investigation Lead Pennsylvania State Police

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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Additional Resources

STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL

The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.

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