Resolution Honors Delaware State Police Cpl. Snook, Killed Protecting Citizens in 2025 DMV Shooting

This resolution is a formal tribute to honor the life and 10-year service of Delaware State Police Corporal Grade One Matthew T. "Ty" Snook. It specifically memorializes his actions on December 23, 2025, when he was tragically killed in the line of duty while protecting employees and the public during a shooting incident at a Division of Motor Vehicles facility near New Castle, Delaware. The document expresses the legislative body's deepest condolences to his family, including his wife, Lauren, and daughter, Letty, recognizing his sacrifice as exemplifying the highest ideals of law enforcement.

The Real-World Impact of a Resolution

While resolutions like this don't change any laws or regulations—you won't see a new fee or requirement pop up because of it—they serve a crucial purpose: formal recognition. For the families of first responders, especially those who make the ultimate sacrifice, this official declaration acknowledges their loved one's service and the specific, heroic circumstances of their passing. It’s the state’s way of saying, on the record, that this person’s life mattered and their actions had a profound impact on the community.

Honoring Service and Sacrifice

According to the resolution, Corporal Snook wasn't just a trooper; he was a field training officer who helped train over 20 new troopers during his career. This detail highlights his role in shaping the next generation of law enforcement. The resolution specifically notes that even after being mortally wounded, he continued his efforts to save others, reinforcing the narrative of selflessness. For those of us who rely on police for public safety—whether you're at the DMV, a grocery store, or stuck on the side of the road—this resolution recognizes the inherent risk police officers take every day, tying the abstract concept of "public service" to a specific, tragic event where an officer stepped up to protect complete strangers. This type of formal recognition helps validate the sacrifices made by all public servants and their families.