Nine people, including two children, are reported dead following a mass shooting and an hours-long standoff in Erie, Pennsylvania, on Friday evening. The suspected gunman was also found dead, and authorities say there is no longer a threat to public safety.
According to CBS affiliate Erie News Now, police were called to Perry Street at approximately 5 p.m. after witnesses reported seeing a man firing a gun before entering a home near 7th and Perry Streets.
Police reportedly found two women dead in the street, while additional victims were discovered inside the residence.
The suspected shooter was later found dead from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities have not clarified whether the suspect is included in the reported total of nine deaths.
Police Chief: “There Are No Words” to Describe the Loss
Erie Police Chief Rick Lorah described the incident as a tragedy whose magnitude is difficult to put into words.
“There are no words that can adequately express the magnitude of the loss of life here,” Lorah said.
Out of respect for the victims and their loved ones, the chief declined to discuss the specific details officers encountered at the scene. He said investigators are working diligently to establish the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Lorah also emphasized that authorities would not speculate about a motive or release information that could compromise the ongoing investigation.
City Officials Confirm No Ongoing Threat
The City of Erie and Mayor Daria Devlin issued a joint statement on social media, reassuring residents that the situation had been contained and that there was no longer a danger to the public.
“Tonight, a terrible tragedy occurred near 7th and Perry Streets in Erie, resulting in multiple deaths,” the statement read.
“We understand that this news brings deep shock and sorrow to our residents, and we want to assure the public that the situation has been contained. The shooter is deceased, and there is no ongoing threat or danger to the public at this time.”
The statement concluded by expressing condolences to the victims, their families and everyone affected by the tragedy.
“Our thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and everyone impacted by tonight’s tragedy.”
Pennsylvania Governor Offers Support
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro issued a statement on Saturday morning, expressing his condolences and offering the state’s full support to the Erie community.
“I’ve spoken with Mayor Devlin and offered my Administration’s full support following the tragic mass shooting in Erie last night — killing nine of our fellow Pennsylvanians,” Shapiro said.
“My heart breaks for this family. Lori and I are praying for their loved ones and the entire Erie community.”
The governor’s statement came as residents grappled with the loss of life and authorities continued their investigation.
Investigation Continues
Police have not released further details about the circumstances that led to the shooting or identified a possible motive. Officials have stressed that they will avoid speculation while investigators work to establish what happened.
The tragedy has left the Erie community mourning the victims, including two children, as local and state officials offer support to the families affected.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident.
Sources: Erie News Now | City of Erie official statement
