A Pennsylvania father has died alongside his two young children in what police are investigating as a murder-suicide. Patrick Lynch, 42, his 8-year-old son James, and 6-year-old daughter Caroline were pronounced dead at the scene after first responders found them in a parking garage in Mount Lebanon on Tuesday.
Police stated that preliminary information suggested a murder-suicide incident. A resident who was present when authorities arrived described the scene as horrific, noting that the reality was far more tragic than any horror movie. "Man, you could see a horror movie, you know? Doesn't match this at all. I mean this is real, real sad," the resident told KDKA.
The Mount Lebanon School District announced that two elementary schools, Markham and Washington, would be closed on Wednesday due to the tragedy. "We are deeply saddened by the tragic news involving members of our Mt. Lebanon school community. Our hearts are with all those affected, and we are keeping them and their loved ones in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time," the district said in a statement.
Police Chief Jason Haberman acknowledged the significant trauma the incident would inflict on the community. "Everyone in the Mt. Lebanon community will know someone involved in this incident," Haberman told WTAE.