A mass shooting in Erie, Pennsylvania, has left eight people dead, including two children and a pregnant woman, after a 45-year-old gunman apparently took his own life, according to police.
The shooting occurred on Friday evening, October 9, at a residence on Perry Street. Authorities confirmed the deaths on Saturday as investigators worked to establish what led to the attack. The suspected gunman was also found dead, bringing the total number of deaths to nine.
Erie Police Chief Rick Lorah said eight of the victims were members of the same family, while the remaining victim was a family friend. The suspect died from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound before officers arrived at the scene.
How the Erie Shooting Unfolded
Police responded at around 5 p.m. on Friday after reports of gunfire in the residential area.
According to investigators, the gunman allegedly shot two women outside the home before entering the residence, where additional victims were found.
Officers later discovered the bodies of the victims inside and outside the property. Authorities said all the deaths occurred before police arrived, clarifying that no additional shooting took place during the police response.
The incident prompted a major law enforcement response, including the deployment of tactical officers. The scene was described by officials as deeply distressing.
Children and Pregnant Woman Among the Victims
Police confirmed that two young children and a pregnant woman were among those killed.
The victims’ deaths have added to the shock surrounding the incident, particularly because most of those killed were members of one family.
Authorities have not publicly identified the suspected gunman in the reports available at the time of publication. Police have also withheld further details while investigators work to establish the full circumstances of the shooting.
Police Investigate Possible Motive
Investigators have not established a motive for the attack.
Chief Lorah said authorities would avoid speculation while the investigation continued. Police are working to piece together the events that led to the killings and determine what happened before the gunman opened fire.
The incident has drawn widespread concern in Erie, a city in northwestern Pennsylvania. Local officials have expressed condolences to the victims’ relatives and others affected by the tragedy.
Pennsylvania Governor Offers Support
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said he had spoken with Erie Mayor Daria Devlin and offered the state government’s support following the shooting.
The mayor also commended the police department for its response to the incident, as the community faced the loss of multiple residents.
Authorities have confirmed that the immediate danger has passed and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The investigation remains ongoing, with police yet to announce a motive or provide a complete account of the events leading up to the shooting.
The deaths have left the Erie community mourning eight victims, while investigators continue working to establish answers for their families.