NORTH CODORUS, Pa. (WHTM) — The man who fatally shot three law enforcement officers and injured two others before he was killed by police in York County, Pennsylvania, has been identified as 24-year-old Matthew James Ruth, according to court documents and law enforcement officials.
An official previously relayed the same information to the Associated Press, but spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorized to discuss an ongoing investigation. Officials are expected to release more information on Thursday afternoon.
According to court documents, police were called to the scene about 15 hours prior to the shooting for a report of a man looking into a home with binoculars. Police say the woman who made the complaint later identified that man as Matthew Ruth, an ex-boyfriend.
Police then issued an arrest warrant for Ruth on charges including stalking, loitering and prowling, and criminal trespass.
On Wednesday, officers had responded to the area to follow up on what officials had described as a domestic-related case. It was at that time that officials say the five officers were shot and the suspect was killed by police.
Officials have not said which department the officers worked for; however, Pennsylvania State Police say they are covering calls for the Northern York County Regional Police Department, where a memorial is growing outside.
“This is an absolutely tragic and devastating day for York County and for the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” Governor Josh Shapiro said during a press conference at WellSpan York Hospital. “Grieve for the loss of life for three precious souls who served this county, served this commonwealth, and served this country, and we continue to pray for the full recovery of those who are dealing with their wounds.”
The FBI and ATF have offered assistance in the investigation, and U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi contacted Governor Shapiro on Wednesday. She called the violence “a scourge on our society.”
The governor has ordered flags in the Commonwealth to fly at half-staff, and vigils are being held across the region for the fallen officers.
Wednesday’s shooting is the second time this year York County has experienced the loss of an officer. In February, West York Borough Office Andrew Duarte was fatally shot at UPMC Memorial Hospital after responding to a hostage situation in the ICU.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.