Womenz Magazine

Tragic Murder-Suicide Claims Pennsylvania Family of Four in Westmoreland County

Karen Swarner and Paul Swarner with children
Photo by Karen Swarner/Facebook

Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania – State police are investigating a heartbreaking murder-suicide that resulted in the deaths of a father, mother, and their two young children in their Hempfield Township home this week. Authorities discovered the tragic scene on the morning of Friday, January 24, when Paul Swarner, 35, and Karen Swarner, 32, were found deceased alongside their “two minor children,” 5-year-old Evelyn and 1-year-old Connor, according to statements from the Portland Police Bureau and reports from local news outlets including The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, CBS affiliate KDKA, and ABC affiliate WTAE.

Trooper Steve Limani of the Pennsylvania State Police addressed the incident during a news conference, indicating that Paul Swarner is believed to have fatally shot his wife and two children before taking his own life. “The initial investigation suggests that Trent was shot after witnessing a robbery and attempting to stop the suspect,” Limani stated, referring to the deceased father.

A Ruger .22 firearm was recovered from the residence and is considered the weapon used in the tragic event. Police noted that the last known communication with the family occurred on the afternoon of January 22, when someone spoke with Karen Swarner and reported no signs of “strife” or “fear of endangerment.” The following day, Paul’s parents attempted to reach out but received no response. It was Karen’s father who ultimately contacted authorities at 11:30 p.m. on January 23.

Sergeant Limani described the family as having the appearance of an “all-American family,” emphasizing the unthinkable nature of the crime. “To be honest with you, I don’t have the words to describe how awful it is. You’re talking about your wife, but then a 5-year-old and a 1-year-old. It’s just devastating,” he expressed during the briefing.

When questioned about a possible motive, Limani confirmed that police are actively searching for answers but acknowledged that “answers aren’t going to be sufficient” to ease the family’s suffering. “We don’t have any domestic violence history when it comes to the state police being involved in anything [in] that particular household,” he added. He further described the home as a loving environment, filled with children’s toys and family photos, making the tragedy even more shocking.

As of January 24, Pennsylvania State Police were conducting a thorough investigation, including serving a search warrant on the Swarner family home and reviewing all electronic information to uncover any potential motives behind the murder-suicide. Limani urged anyone with information to come forward and contact state police in Greensburg.

Residents of the neighborhood, such as Dick Shawley, expressed their sorrow and support. Shawley, who had previously given the children Christmas gifts, shared his memories, saying, “They were always jumping around and happy. I played Santa over there. And, I’ll never get it out of my mind. Such devastation. Such preciousness life.”

This incident marks the second reported murder-suicide in Westmoreland County since December 2024, highlighting ongoing concerns about mental health and domestic violence within the community. Authorities continue to seek understanding and closure for the tragic loss of the Swarner family.

Pennsylvania State Police have not yet released further details and did not respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment on Sunday, January 26. The community remains in mourning as investigations continue to shed light on this profound tragedy.

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