Shooter Kills Eight and Himself in Pennsylvania Home; Governor Offers Support

Authorities in Erie, Pennsylvania, reported on Saturday that a 45-year-old man killed eight people before taking his own life during a shooting at his home. Erie Police Chief Rick Lorah stated that seven of the victims were related to the shooter, while the eighth was a family friend.

Among those who died were a one-year-old girl, a five-year-old boy, and a pregnant woman. Police discovered the scene early Saturday morning. Chief Lorah described an “eerie silence” upon arrival and noted that the gunman died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound before officers reached him.

The shooter has not yet been formally identified, and law enforcement is still investigating the motive behind the massacre. The identity of the suspect remains withheld pending further investigation.

Erie Mayor Daria Devlin addressed the grieving families during a press conference, expressing deep regret and solidarity. “What happened to you was horrific, and there is nothing that any of us can say today that will make this any easier,” Devlin said. “But you do need to know that our entire community is with you, we’re grieving with you. And we are here to support you.” 

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro offered his administration’s full support to the city. In a statement posted on X, Shapiro confirmed he spoke with Mayor Devlin following the incident that claimed nine lives. “My heart breaks for this family,” he said, adding that he and his wife, Lori Shapiro, are praying for the victims and the broader Erie community.

Governor Shapiro, a Democrat, has previously championed gun control legislation in the state and signed an executive order in 2024 to reinstate the Pennsylvania Office of Gun Violence Prevention.