Nine people, including the gunman and at least two children, died Friday night after a shooting at a home in Eerie, Pennsylvania. Police say the shooter died from a self‑inflicted gunshot wound and that all victims were killed before officers arrived, with no ongoing threat to the public.
Officers responded to a ShotSpotter alert just before 5 p.m. Friday near East Seventh and Perry streets. Witnesses reported seeing a man fire a weapon outside before entering the residence.
First responders found two women dead outside and several victims, including children, inside, along with the suspected shooter.
A SWAT team was deployed and officers attempted to negotiate surrender before entering with a warrant, according to ABC News.
Police later clarified that reports of additional gunfire were mistaken; the sounds came from flash‑bang devices, and investigators confirmed the deaths occurred before the tactical entry.
Police Chief Statement
Erie Police Chief Rick Lorah called the scene one of the most distressing in his nearly three‑decade career.
“I want to be candid with our community. This is one of the most difficult and heartbreaking scenes our officers and investigators have ever encountered,” Lorah said.
Lorah confirmed the shooter is dead and said there is no ongoing threat, while refusing to detail what officers found inside, citing respect for the victims.
He added that investigators will not speculate on motive or release information that could compromise the probe, per CBS News.
City and Governor Response
The City of Erie and Mayor Daria Devlin issued a joint statement calling the incident a “terrible tragedy” and urging residents to avoid spreading unverified details.
Officials emphasized that the situation is contained and that the community should remain vigilant while the investigation continues.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said he spoke with Devlin and offered the state’s full support, writing on X that his heart breaks for the family.
Authorities have not announced a motive, released victim names, or provided details on what led to the shooting, as investigators continue to piece together the circumstances.
