Candle

A mass shooting at a home in Erie, Pennsylvania, left eight people dead Friday evening, including young children, before the 45-year-old gunman took his own life. Police say the shooter, whose name has not been released, was related to seven of the eight victims and was described by relatives as the family's patriarch and a grandfather who showed no outward signs of distress.

Among the dead were a 1-year-old girl, her pregnant mother, the mother's 5-year-old son and an unborn baby, as well as a friend of the pregnant woman. Investigators said muffled gunshots were heard inside the home before two women arrived, were shot outside as they approached, and died there; officers later found additional victims inside, including the shooter. Erie Police Chief Rick Lorah declined to discuss a motive but said investigators are examining victims' cellphones and speaking with relatives, noting mental health may be a factor. Local officials, including Erie's mayor, offered condolences as the community mourned at a growing memorial outside the home.