A routine afternoon at a Delaware motor vehicle office turned tragic on Tuesday when a state trooper was fatally shot during an active shooter incident, prompting a swift police response that ended with the suspect dead.
Authorities said the shooting occurred shortly after 2 p.m. at a Division of Motor Vehicles facility on Hessler Boulevard in New Castle County, near Wilmington. The trooper, who was working an overtime assignment at the front reception area, was approached by a man who had entered the building as a customer.
According to state police, the suspect suddenly opened fire, striking the trooper. Despite being wounded, the trooper managed to push a DMV employee out of danger before being shot again. Responding officers from New Castle County arrived quickly and shot the suspect, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The trooper later succumbed to his injuries.
Officials confirmed the threat was neutralized before 3 p.m., allowing law enforcement to secure the building and evacuate staff and visitors.
Delaware Governor Matt Meyer addressed the incident in public remarks, describing the attack as a senseless act of violence and praising the rapid actions of police officers who prevented further harm. State Police Superintendent Colonel William Crotty highlighted the trooper’s final moments as an act of selfless bravery, noting that his actions likely saved lives.
In addition to the fatalities, three individuals experienced minor, non-gunshot-related injuries during the evacuation and aftermath. One woman was transported to a nearby hospital, while another declined medical transport after being evaluated. A second trooper was also checked for a minor injury at the scene.
Following the incident, DMV offices across Delaware were temporarily closed as a precaution. Images from inside the building showed visible damage, including a shattered window and scattered belongings left behind during the emergency.
As of Tuesday evening, authorities had not released the names of either the fallen trooper or the suspect. The Delaware Department of Justice has assigned senior prosecutors to assist with the ongoing investigation.
State officials urged the public to keep the trooper’s family and colleagues in their thoughts as the investigation continues.
