MINQUADALE, Del. — State police in Delaware revealed that a man who fatally shot a trooper at a Department of Motor Vehicles facility on December 23 had specifically targeted law enforcement. The incident occurred just two days before Christmas, raising concerns about safety and the motives behind such violence.
Authorities have identified the shooter as 44-year-old Rahman Rose, who had recently relocated from Connecticut to the Wilmington area without a permanent residence. Investigators reported that Rose had expressed paranoia, believing that police were surveilling him and that he was being targeted. His concerns extended to claims of “gang stalking,” a concept referring to the notion of being persistently monitored and harassed by authorities.
In the days leading up to the shooting, police noted that Rose had posted anti-law enforcement sentiments on social media platforms. State police have confirmed that there was no evidence linking Rose to any organized group or suggesting he had co-conspirators. Interactions he had with Delaware law enforcement prior to the incident were limited and non-criminal in nature, and none of these encounters involved Cpl. Matthew “Ty” Snook, the officer who was killed.
Investigators have emphasized that there was no previous relationship or conflict between Rose and Snook. “The evidence suggests this was a deliberate attack directed at law enforcement,” state police stated.
On the day of the shooting, Rose entered the DMV facility at approximately 11:30 a.m., initially leaving shortly after without engaging in any business. He returned shortly before 2 p.m., taking a ticket while Snook and a DMV employee were present. Reports indicate there was no direct interaction at that moment, but just minutes later, Rose ambushed Snook from behind, firing a concealed handgun over a glass partition.
Snook demonstrated remarkable bravery during the attack, attempting to protect the DMV employee before being shot again. After the initial chaos, Rose allowed other customers to leave the building before appearing to wait for police to arrive. He subsequently fired shots at responding officers, escalating the situation.
The incident concluded when a New Castle County police officer shot Rose through a window as he remained inside the DMV. Rose was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
In the wake of this tragedy, Delaware State Police expressed their gratitude for the community’s support and highlighted Snook’s dedication to service. “Cpl. Snook was an exemplary Trooper whose strength and sacrifice will inspire everyone who knew him,” police officials stated, underscoring his commitment to protecting others with courage and integrity.