Eight people were killed in a shooting at a home in Erie, Pennsylvania, including two children and a pregnant woman. The suspected gunman was also found dead, bringing the total number of people found at the scene to nine.
Police describe the scene
Police were called to the residence shortly before 5 p.m. on Friday after gunfire was detected. Officers found two women dead outside the home. After using a drone and a robot to assess the building, police entered and found six more victims inside, including a five-year-old boy and a one-year-old girl. The 45-year-old suspect was found on the second floor.
Erie Police Chief Rick Lorah said the suspect was related to seven of the victims; the eighth victim was a friend of the pregnant woman. Investigators have not publicly established a motive. Authorities are reviewing evidence and speaking with relatives as the investigation continues.
Community responds
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro offered state support to Erie officials and the victims’ families. Local officials urged residents not to circulate rumors or unverified claims while investigators work to determine what led to the killings. Erie is about 190 kilometres north of Pittsburgh.
The case has deeply affected the community, with police officers involved in the response offered counselling. Officials have asked the public to respect the families’ privacy as they grieve.
