EAST LANSDOWNE, Pennsylvania – A tragedy unfolded in East Lansdowne, Pennsylvania, with a deadly shooting and fire resulting in the deaths of six family members. Authorities recovered the bodies two days after the incident, leaving two police officers injured and the surviving family members mourning the loss of their loved ones. The Delaware County District Attorney expressed his shock, calling it “one of the most terrible tragedies we’ve had here in years.”
The family members identified as Britni McLaughlin-Le, Xuong Le, and their three children, Natalya, Nakayla, and Xavier, were remembered as a “loving” couple and devoted parents and children who excelled in academics, the arts, and sports. The community paid their respects to the family, with a memorial set up near the scene.
Investigators believe the uncle of the children, Canh Le, was the likely shooter and arsonist. The surviving grandparents of the children managed to escape and indicated that Canh Le was responsible for the tragic events. The district attorney also revealed that Canh Le had a history of criminal charges, including making terroristic threats, but without a clear motive for the shooting.
The recovery of the bodies took place over multiple days due to the severity of the fire, with a rifle and three badly burned bodies found initially. The medical examiner’s office is working to identify the bodies and determine the cause of death for each family member. Investigators also believe that the gunman intentionally set the house on fire, which hampered initial firefighting efforts.
The injuries sustained by the police officers during the incident raised concerns about ongoing safety for first responders. Public safety experts emphasized the unusual nature of the 911 call that led to the tragic events, with officers engaging in a shootout with the suspect before the house caught fire. Both officers are expected to recover from their injuries.
As the investigation into the motive and circumstances of the shooting and fire continues, the community and authorities remain stunned and heartbroken by the senseless loss of life in this quiet suburban neighborhood.