Photo credit: Facebook/Timothy Kinsella
An incident on Erie’s east side left nine people reported dead Friday evening, Oct. 9, including two children and the suspected gunman. Police responded to a home on the 700 block of Perry Street after reports of gunfire shortly before 5 p.m.
Local news outlets reported the updated toll on Saturday morning. Erie Police Chief Rick Lorah confirmed that the suspected shooter had died from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. However, officials had not publicly released the victims’ identities or established a motive.
What happened on Perry Street in Erie?
According to reports from Erie News Now, witnesses saw a man firing a handgun outside the residence before he entered the house. Officers arrived and found two women outside with fatal injuries.
Police then surrounded the home as the situation developed into a standoff. Officers reportedly used a loudspeaker to urge the man to surrender. Additional gunshots were heard from inside the residence during the response.
Eventually, officers entered the home and discovered more victims. Local reports said two children were among those found inside. The reported death toll later rose to nine, although early coverage reflected uncertainty about the final number.
Police chief addresses the Erie community
Lorah described the scene as one of the most difficult situations his officers and investigators had encountered. He also expressed sympathy for the victims’ families and others affected by the incident.
Meanwhile, city officials said the situation had been contained and that there was no continuing threat to the public. Police continued investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Authorities have not publicly identified the victims. They also have not established whether the suspected gunman knew the people who died or explained what led to the incident.
Investigation continues as officials seek answers
Investigators are working to establish the sequence of events and determine what led to the violence. The Erie County Coroner’s Office was also involved in processing the scene, according to local reporting.
The reported loss of life has drawn attention across Pennsylvania as residents await more information. Officials have urged the public to rely on verified updates while the investigation continues.
As authorities work to confirm the details, the identities of the victims, the motive and the relationships among those involved remain key unanswered questions. Further information is expected as investigators release additional findings.
About the Author
