Matthew Tyler "Ty" Snook

Corporal Grade One Matthew Tyler “Ty” Snook, 34, of Hockessin, Delaware, entered into God’s care on December 23, 2025. He served his community with unwavering courage, commitment, and integrity in the line of duty. These same qualities, along with honesty, loyalty, and kindness, defined his life as a trusted friend to many, a cherished son, a beloved brother, a loving husband, and in the role he cherished most, a devoted father. 

Ty first brought joy into this world in July 1991. He was raised in Bear, Delaware, where he attended local schools and built the foundation of the character and values that would guide him throughout his life. He attended Commodore Macdonough and Our Lady of Fatima schools, where his love of sports and his natural leadership ability first began to take shape.

He graduated from Saint Mark’s High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically, earning the respect of teammates, classmates, and teachers alike. Ty went on to attend the University of Maryland on a Division I wrestling scholarship, majoring in pre‑med, while continuing to distinguish himself through discipline, determination, and heart.

Throughout his formative years and schooling, Ty had a rare gift for friendship. He built deep lasting bonds, and those who met him often found a lifelong friend. His loyalty, humor, and authenticity made people feel known, valued, and seen in his presence.

In 2015, Ty proudly began his service with the Delaware State Police, where he was known for his physical prowess, dedication and loyalty to his shift mates, and consistent ability to adapt to critical incidents selflessly. He dedicated ten years to protecting and serving the people of Delaware, earning the trust and respect of colleagues and community members.

Ty served as a field training officer; guiding and mentoring new recruits as they began their patrols. Outside the academy, he shaped the next generation of law enforcement with patience, skill, and care.

He had strong leadership aspirations and was diligently working toward them, always seeking ways to grow, contribute, and make a lasting impact on both the force and the community he served.

On December 23, Ty picked up an overtime shift before a week of vacation with his family. This assignment was at the Wilmington Division of Motor Vehicles. He was approached from a blind angle and critically wounded. In his remaining moments, he stood, gave instructions, and pushed others out of harm’s way. Ty’s act of bravery, strength, and sacrifice exemplified the values he lived by every day, protecting others with courage, selflessness, and unwavering integrity.

This community hero is survived by his loving wife, Lauren, and their daughter, Letty; his parents, Matthew and Karen Snook; his brother, Joshua Snook and wife, Kirsten; his sister, Kassi Dunphy and husband, Ryan and nephew, Noah. He was also the beloved grandson of Marie “Boch” Janiszewski. Ty is remembered by many extended family members and dear friends, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. 

The family is deeply grateful for the overwhelming outpouring of love, support, and care from the community. The countless gestures—both large and small—have provided comfort, strength, and hope during this unimaginably difficult time, and the family is forever touched by the generosity and compassion shown. 

Ty’s life, his love for family and friends, and his dedication to others leave a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Services honoring Ty’s life and sacrifice will be held on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the University of Delaware Bob Carpenter Center, located at 631 S. College Avenue, Newark, Delaware 19716. A public visitation will take place from 9:00am - 12:00pm. At the conclusion of the visitation, a pass and review will be conducted by all uniformed emergency services personnel in attendance. A memorial service will then immediately follow at 1:00pm. At the conclusion of the service, final honors will be presented, with all ceremonial events expected to conclude at approximately 3:00pm. Interment will be private and closed to the public and the media.

Please omit flowers. In lieu of flowers, support for Ty’s family can be coordinated through a fund established by the Delaware State Police: Help a Hero: Help Support Corporal Grade One Matthew Tyler Snook's Family; or checks can be made payable to the DSTA Benevolent Fund; memo: Snook Family; and mail to: Delaware State Troopers Association, PO Box 168, Cheswold, DE 19936.

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