Delaware State Trooper Murder Update: New Details on Tragic Incident
A final update has been released regarding the tragic incident where a man was killed by a police officer after murdering a Delaware State trooper at a DMV last year. The incident involved Rahman Rose, 44, who shot and killed Corporal Grade One Matthew T. “Ty” Snook, 34, at the Karen L. Johnson DMV in New Castle, Delaware. The Delaware State Police provided new details on the murder, Rose's background, and potential motivation on January 16, 2026.
On December 23, 2025, Rahman Rose entered the Karen L. Johnson DMV in New Castle, Delaware, twice without conducting any business. He later approached Cpl/1 Snook from behind and opened fire, fatally shooting him. Despite being injured, Cpl/1 Snook shielded a DMV worker from harm. Rose allowed customers to leave the DMV but fired additional shots at responding officers, indicating a deliberate targeting of law enforcement.
A New Castle County Police officer shot Rose through a window, resulting in the deaths of both Rose and Cpl/1 Snook. Another trooper sustained non-life-threatening injuries, while two women were treated for minor injuries. Cpl/1 Snook was described as an exemplary trooper and a devoted family man by the Delaware State Police.
Prior to the shooting, Rose had expressed concerns about being targeted by law enforcement and had posted anti-police content on social media. Investigators determined that Rose acted alone and had limited prior interactions with Delaware law enforcement. The shooting was deemed a deliberate and targeted attack on law enforcement.
Victims or witnesses of crimes, or those who have lost loved ones to sudden death, can seek assistance from the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center by calling 1-800-VICTIM-1 or emailing [email protected]. The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice exhibited by law enforcement officers like Cpl/1 Snook.