The York County community is reeling after the devastating loss of three detectives—Sgt. Cody Becker, Detective Isaiah Emenheiser, and Detective Mark Baker—who were killed in an ambush while serving a warrant in North Codorus Township on September 17, 2025. What began as a routine warrant service quickly turned into one of the darkest days in local law enforcement history.
According to officials, the officers had returned to a farm property following troubling reports that 24-year-old Matthew James Ruth, the ex-boyfriend of a woman living there, had been stalking the home armed with an AR-15 rifle. Trail cameras had previously captured Ruth lurking around the area, prompting heightened concerns for the woman’s safety. Acting on those threats, detectives sought to take him into custody.
When officers entered the unlocked house on the property, Ruth, wearing camouflage and concealed in a nearby cornfield, unleashed gunfire in a calculated ambush. Sgt. Becker, Detective Emenheiser, and Detective Baker were struck and fatally wounded in the opening moments of the attack. Two additional officers were critically injured before law enforcement returned fire, killing Ruth at the scene.
The ambush has sent shockwaves through York County and beyond. Vigils are already being planned, with community members leaving flowers and notes outside police stations in honor of the fallen. Officials have described the three slain detectives as brave men who dedicated their lives to protecting others and who died in the line of duty with honor.
The Pennsylvania State Police, alongside federal partners, continue to investigate Ruth’s actions and possible warning signs that led to this tragedy. Meanwhile, the focus remains on supporting the grieving families and the wounded officers as they fight to recover. Deepest condolences are extended to all those mourning the loss of these dedicated heroes.
