BETHLEHEM, PA — A GoFundMe fundraiser has been organized to support the family of Sarah Rice, a 39-year-old mother of three who died Friday night in what authorities have described as an apparent murder-suicide in west Bethlehem.
Rice’s sister, Janelle Rice, describes her death as the result of a murder-suicide carried out by her longtime romantic partner, Greg A. Johnson, 42. Authorities have not officially classified the deaths, though police have said the circumstances remain under investigation.
Bethlehem police said Rice and Johnson were found dead Friday night in the basement of their home, near West Lehigh Avenue. Lehigh County Coroner Daniel A. Buglio said autopsies revealed both died from gunshot wounds to the head. The manner of death for both remains pending until the investigation by Bethlehem police and the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office is complete.
According to police, an adult called 911 after dropping off one of Rice’s children at the home following a playdate. Police said the child returned to the adult shortly afterward and reported that “a serious issue had occurred inside the residence.”
Officers responding to the scene found two additional children inside the home, along with an older adult who appeared unaware that gunshots had occurred downstairs, police said. Authorities said the older adult is not considered a suspect.
Bethlehem mother Sarah Rice (Photo Courtesy: GoFundMe)
Rice and Johnson had been together for more than 20 years but were not legally married. They shared three children together, ages 8, 4 and 2. Rice is also survived by a 24-year-old daughter from a previous relationship, as well as her mother and three sisters.
Friends, neighbors and family members gathered Sunday night outside the home for a candlelight vigil and balloon release to honor Rice and Johnson. Dozens of adults and children placed candles on the front steps and porch as they reflected on the family’s life.
An online fundraiser established to help cover funeral expenses and support Rice’s children had raised more than $26,000 as of Monday. The GoFundMe states that all funds will go directly to Rice’s mother, Lori Rice, and her eldest sister, Janelle.
“We have lost a beloved mother, daughter, wife, and friend to a senseless act of violence,” the fundraiser post states, calling Rice’s death “a horrific act of harm.” Family members are asking the community to help ensure her children receive care and support in the months and years ahead.
Bethlehem police said the department’s Criminal Investigation Division is continuing to investigate the case with assistance from the Lehigh Valley Homicide Task Force and the Lehigh Valley Coroner’s Office. Police said no further information will be released at this time.
Isabel Hope is a journalist and website designer based in Bethlehem, PA. She graduated with a degree in journalism from The University of Alabama in 2022, where she served as News Editor of the student newspaper. Isabel has lived in the Lehigh Valley for three years and is passionate about reporting for the communities she now calls home.