RED LION, Pa. (AP) — Three Pennsylvania detectives shot to death last week while attempting to arrest a stalking suspect were remembered at their funeral Thursday as exemplary officers and devoted family men.
The service for Northern York County Regional Police detectives Cody Michael Becker, Mark Edward Baker, and Isaiah Emenheiser took place at Living Word Community Church, where hundreds gathered to pay their respects. They were honored following a procession of flag-draped caskets.
“They were gentle, they were kind,” Northern Regional Chief David L. Lash recalled in a eulogy. “They confronted some of the most evil human behaviors imaginable. And not only did they face those challenges, they did so while holding fast to faith, compassion and uncompromising honor.”
Autopsy results indicated all three officers died from multiple gunshot wounds after being ambushed by 24-year-old Matthew James Ruth, who opened fire as they approached the woman's home where he was accused of stalking. Ruth died during the gunfire exchange.
Becker, 39, was described as a star athlete in high school and a dedicated officer, while Baker, 53, was noted for his expertise in computer forensics and as an Eagle Scout. Emenheiser, 43, was celebrated for his mentoring of younger officers and his aspirations to open a gym.
Colleagues recalled acts of heroism from the officers, including Becker saving children from a burning building and Emenheiser’s impactful mentorship in the department. Each of them left behind families who deeply felt the loss.
As the service concluded, a reminder was made of the sacrifices police officers make daily in service to their communities. The funeral served not just as a memorial but a call to honor their legacy by continuing their work in a dangerous profession.
