Matthew J. Ruth**, 24, has been officially identified as the suspect in the devastating **Spring Grove, Pennsylvania** shooting that claimed the lives of three police officers and left two others wounded during a warrant service. The September 17 incident has shaken York County and beyond, not only for its violence but also for the wave of confusion it triggered online.
Shortly after news broke, an unrelated man from Hanover—who shared the same first name—was falsely accused on social media, forcing him to publicly confirm he was alive and uninvolved. Authorities have since urged the public to rely on official channels to avoid spreading harmful misinformation.Investigators say Ruth’s violent trajectory had been escalating. He was previously connected to stalking and arson incidents involving his ex-girlfriend.
Court records show that she reported seeing him outside her home in camouflage, staring through binoculars, and later, trail cameras captured him carrying what appeared to be a rifle on her property. Those events prompted police to secure a warrant, but when officers attempted to serve it at the Haar Road residence, Ruth opened fire. The encounter turned deadly, with officers fatally struck before returning fire. Ruth was killed during the exchange.
The Pennsylvania State Police, York County District Attorney’s Office, and federal agencies are continuing to investigate Ruth’s actions in the days and weeks leading up to the shooting. They are also piecing together whether warning signs could have been addressed sooner.
For the families of the fallen officers, as well as the two still recovering from critical injuries, the tragedy marks an unbearable loss. Vigils and tributes have begun across the region, honoring the bravery of those who gave their lives in service. Sincere condolences are extended to all who are grieving during this painful time.
