ERIE, Pa. —
Officials in Erie have identified the victims of a mass shooting that claimed eight lives over the weekend, including seven family members and a family friend. Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook confirmed the names of the adult victims and their causes of death.
Victims identified and causes of death released
The victims include 45-year-old Matthew Stone Sr., whose cause of death was ruled a suicide by gunshot wound to the head. The other victims, whose deaths were classified as homicides, include 44-year-old Michelle Stone, Matthew Stone Sr.’s wife; 24-year-old Angelina Stone, his pregnant daughter who was scheduled to be induced on Monday; his two sons, 19-year-old Jonathan Stone and 21-year-old Matthew Stone; 51-year-old Twila Tanner; and 37-year-old Lora Roberts, a family friend.
Friend remembers Lora Roberts for helping others
Lora Roberts was remembered by friends as someone who always helped others. Chris Tombaugh, director of Community of Caring and a close friend of Roberts, shared her memories.
“She always lifted you up. And, you know, she always knew when something was wrong with somebody and would, you know, would try to help,” Tombaugh said.
Tombaugh recalled a recent social media post from Roberts about a shooting in Erie this past summer.
“Erie, we need to do better. Another family mourning, another heartbreaking story, hearing about a newborn baby, a 25-year-old female found deceased, and all the other tragedies happening in Erie has really gotten to me,” Tombaugh said, quoting Roberts’ post.
Reflecting on Roberts’ sentiments, Tombaugh added, “She just wanted the community to be a better place.”
Archbishop calls for action on gun violence and mental health
Erie Archbishop Dwane Brock also spoke about the tragedy and the need for action. Brock, who was hosting a conference with dozens of bishops when the shooting occurred, described the impact of the news.
“We were in a state of shock, number one, because I had bishops in literally from all over the country here at a conference. And then the news came to me, which, of course, we had to address at that time,” Brock said.
He continued, “It was horrendous. It was demonic. And our prayers, of course, go out to the Erie community and the families at large.”
Brock emphasized the importance of addressing gun violence and mental health.
“We know that the criticism is going to come, but nevertheless, we want to save lives. Number two, we need to enhance the talk about mental health,” Brock said.
Community support needed for grieving families
Tombaugh expressed her grief over the loss of Roberts, saying, “Sunday and Saturday, I was thinking, I need to call Lora and see how she is. I mean, it would just pop into my head, you know, that. Yeah. It’s just something that you can’t do.”
Tombaugh said all the families impacted by the tragedy will need support and help from the community.
