NORTH CODORUS TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Authorities have officially identified 24-year-old Matthew James Ruth as the suspect in the York County ambush that killed three police officers, critically injured two others, and ended with Ruth dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Court records released Thursday provide chilling details about Ruth’s behavior just one day before the tragedy, suggesting a disturbing pattern of stalking and threats connected to his ex-girlfriend.
Stalking Allegations Surface
According to an affidavit of probable cause, a woman reported that a man dressed in full camouflage and carrying binoculars was seen peering into her North Codorus Township home. Trail camera images captured on her property confirmed the man was Ruth, her daughter’s ex-boyfriend.
The daughter told police that her relationship with Ruth had been brief and that he had never been invited to her home. She also revealed that her vehicle had been set on fire in the driveway weeks earlier, though she initially suspected Ruth and declined to pursue charges.
Investigators reviewing the trail camera image said Ruth appeared to have an AR-15 style rifle slung across his chest while aiming a scope-like device toward the residence.
Escalation to Violence
On September 17, when officers arrived at a residence along Harr Road to serve a warrant for Ruth on charges of stalking, loitering and prowling at night, and criminal trespass, gunfire erupted.
Ruth opened fire on officers, killing three and leaving two more critically wounded in one of the deadliest attacks on law enforcement in Pennsylvania’s recent history. A massive emergency response followed, with medevac helicopters rushing the wounded to trauma centers.
Community and Official Response
The Spring Grove School District was briefly placed on lockdown as a precaution, though no students or staff were harmed. Local officials described the events as “an unthinkable tragedy” and urged the community to rally behind the families of the fallen officers.
Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. Austin Davis called for prayers and support, saying:
“These officers gave their lives in service to their community. We must honor their sacrifice and support their families.”
Meanwhile, law enforcement leaders have condemned Ruth’s actions, stressing that the case underscores the dangers officers face when responding to domestic violence and stalking complaints.
Ongoing Investigation
The York County Office of Emergency Management confirmed that multiple agencies remain involved in the investigation. Authorities are now piecing together Ruth’s movements in the days leading up to the ambush and examining his relationship with his ex-girlfriend, who had recently reported his threatening behavior.
The tragedy has left the community in mourning and renewed calls for greater protections for both stalking victims and the officers tasked with protecting them.