RED LION, Pa. (AP) — A closed funeral is set for Thursday at Living Word Community Church in Red Lion for three Pennsylvania detectives who were tragically shot and killed last week. The detectives, Cody Michael Becker, Mark Edward Baker, and Isaiah Emenheiser, were fatally shot by 24-year-old Matthew James Ruth, the suspected stalker of a woman whose home they were responding to. The service will commence at noon, following a motorcade procession to escort the officers' bodies from a funeral home.

This sombre event is closed to the public; however, the church will livestream the service online. This marks the second time in 2025 that the church has hosted a funeral for police officers killed in the line of duty. Autopsy results recently revealed that all three officers died from multiple gunshot wounds. Prosecutors have stated that Ruth opened fire as the officers approached the front door, leading to a deadly confrontation where Ruth was also killed.

District Attorney Tim Barker indicated that authorities believe Ruth had premeditated the attack against the woman he was accused of stalking. The three fallen officers have been remembered fondly by their community and families for their dedication and bravery. Detective Cody Michael Becker, 39, was a resident of Spring Grove and a star multisport athlete during his high school years. As a sergeant, Becker had served on the Northern York County Regional Police force for 16 years and was celebrated for his heroics, including a notable incident in 2010 where he rescued children from a burning building. He is survived by a wife and two children.

Detective Mark Edward Baker, 53, who resided in Dover, was a U.S. Army veteran and had a distinguished career in law enforcement. He joined the Northern Regional Police in 2004 and specialized in computer forensics investigations. An Eagle Scout and adult Scouting leader, Baker dedicated 15 years to the detective role. He left behind a wife and four children, as well as a fifth child who predeceased him.

Detective Isaiah Emenheiser, 43, graduated from York College with a degree in criminal justice and had previously served in the U.S. Secret Service. He was noted for his record of DUI arrests and was honored as officer of the year in 2010. Emenheiser was recognized for his commitment to community service, having saved a man from a burning mobile home in Thomasville in 2005. His personal interests included fitness and youth soccer coaching. He is survived by his wife and two children.

This tragic loss has left a profound impact on the local community. The memorial not only honors the lives of Becker, Baker, and Emenheiser but also signifies the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers every day to safeguard the public. It serves as a reminder of the dangers they face and the family and community ties that underscore their dedication to service.