NORTH CODORUS TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Newly released court documents and investigative records have identified Matthew Ruth as the suspect in the devastating York County shooting that claimed the lives of three police officers, critically wounded two more, and left a rural Pennsylvania community reeling in grief.
Background to the Incident
Just one day before the deadly ambush on September 17, police had already been investigating Ruth in connection with a disturbing incident in North Codorus Township. According to an affidavit of probable cause, a woman contacted authorities after spotting a man in camouflage, carrying binoculars, and peering into her home through a window.
Security footage from a trail camera on her property captured a man in military-style gear lurking near her driveway. Officers responding to the call discovered a black 2000 Ford Ranger pickup truck abandoned nearby, but the individual had fled the area before they arrived.
Prior Concerning Behavior
The affidavit revealed troubling details. The homeowner’s daughter reported that on August 20, her own vehicle was set on fire in the driveway. Although she initially suspected her ex-boyfriend, she declined to pursue charges at the time. Later, the daughter confirmed that the man seen in camouflage on the trail camera was, in fact, her ex-boyfriend, Matthew Ruth.
In the trail camera image, Ruth appeared to be armed, carrying an AR-15 style rifle slung across his chest while using what looked like a scope to observe the residence. Investigators described the behavior as predatory and filed charges, including stalking, loitering and prowling at night, and criminal trespass. A warrant for Ruth’s arrest was subsequently issued, though officers were unable to locate him before tragedy struck.
The Deadly Shooting
On September 17, law enforcement officers from multiple agencies attempted to serve a warrant at a property on Haar Road in North Codorus Township. Ruth allegedly opened fire on them in an ambush-style attack. The violent exchange left three officers dead and two others fighting for their lives in area hospitals.
Authorities confirmed that Ruth later died from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound during the standoff.
Community Impact
The York County community has been left shaken by the loss of three dedicated officers. Vigils are being planned across the county, with residents and fellow law enforcement agencies paying tribute to the fallen.
Officials say the investigation remains ongoing, as detectives work to piece together Ruth’s movements and motivations in the days leading up to the ambush.
“This tragedy has left a permanent scar on our community,” one York County official stated. “We lost three brave officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to public safety.”
Call for Information
Anyone with additional information about Ruth’s activities prior to the shooting is urged to contact the York County District Attorney’s Office or local law enforcement.