Honoring the Fallen: Pennsylvania Detectives Remembered

Mon Sep 29 2025 00:24:50 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Three Pennsylvania detectives were honored during a moving funeral service after they were tragically killed in the line of duty while arresting a stalking suspect.

Detectives Cody Michael Becker, Mark Edward Baker, and Isaiah Emenheiser were honored at a funeral attended by hundreds of police officers following their deaths in an ambush during a stalking investigation. Their dedication to duty, community, and family was celebrated as heartfelt tributes poured in, reminding all of the dangers faced by law enforcement.

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 was held more than a week after they were ambushed by a man who had been inside the home of a woman he was accused of stalking.

Hundreds of police officers attended the somber gathering at Living Word Community Church, following a procession that brought their flag-draped caskets from a local funeral home. “They confronted some of the most evil human behaviors imaginable,” remarked Northern Regional Chief David L. Lash in his eulogy. He praised their courage, reminding attendees of the sacrifices made in service to the community.

Autopsy results indicated that all three officers succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds during the ambush. The attacker, 24-year-old Matthew James Ruth, reportedly fired on the officers as they entered the woman’s residence and died in the ensuing gunfire.

Detectives Becker, 39, Baker, 53, and Emenheiser, 43, each left behind families who mourn their untimely loss. Becker had served on the Northern Regional force for 16 years, while Baker spent three years with the Philadelphia Police Department before joining the Northern Regional in 2004. Emenheiser had a distinguished history with the department as well, known for making over a hundred DUI arrests in a single year.

Survivors of the fallen detectives shared fond memories of their loved ones, highlighting not only their commitment to law enforcement but also their deep-seated values as family men. Becker was recalled for his heroic act of rescuing children from a burning building and Baker was noted for his dedication to his family and his contributions within scouting.

The funeral service served as a poignant reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face each day. Another public funeral for Becker is scheduled at Spring Grove Area High School, allowing the community to pay their respects to an officer who dedicated his life to public service.