Authorities have identified Delaware State Trooper Matthew Tyler Snook as the officer killed during a fatal shooting at a Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) facility in Wilmington. The incident occurred Tuesday afternoon at the DMV located on Hessler Boulevard in the Minquadale area of New Castle County, prompting a large-scale emergency response.
Law enforcement officials confirmed the suspect as 44-year-old Avery Young, who allegedly opened fire inside the DMV. Authorities stated that Young later died during the incident. Trooper Snook was killed in the line of duty while responding to the active shooter situation.
Delaware State Police reported that a second trooper sustained minor injuries, though those injuries were not caused by gunfire. Additionally, a 40-year-old woman was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of minor, non-gunshot-related injuries.
Emergency radio traffic indicated that shortly after 2:00 p.m., command staff reported two individuals down at the scene. Emergency medical personnel administered CPR, and officials later confirmed there were two primary trauma patients. Additional medical assistance was provided to others affected during the chaotic evacuation, including individuals who fell or experienced breathing difficulties.
Governor Matt Meyer addressed the tragedy in a public statement, confirming that officers acted swiftly to secure the scene and that Trooper Snook was killed while protecting the public. The Delaware Department of Justice also released a statement, noting that senior prosecutors were dispatched to assist with the investigation and that the Attorney General remains in close coordination with Delaware State Police.
As a result of the shooting, the Wilmington DMV on Hessler Boulevard remains closed until further notice. All services at the facility have been suspended, and residents have been redirected to the Delaware City DMV for motor vehicle needs. Road closures affected Hessler Boulevard and portions of Route 13 south of Interstate 495, with authorities urging the public to avoid the area.
Officials have not yet released details regarding what led up to the shooting. The investigation remains active, and authorities have stated that more information will be shared as it becomes available.
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