Erie Police Chief Rick Lorah announced on Thursday that investigators have established a timeline for the Oct. 9 shooting that resulted in the deaths of nine people, including the shooter. Authorities identified Matthew Stone Sr., 45, as the person responsible for the deaths of seven family members and two visitors at a residence on Perry Street before he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The investigation revealed that the victims included Stone's wife, Michelle Stone, 44; his pregnant daughter, Angelina Stone, 24; his sons Jonathan Stone, 19, and Matthew Stone, 21; and two children, ages 1 and 5. Two other women, Lora Roberts, 37, and Twila Tanner, 51, were also killed after arriving at the home shortly before the shooting began. Chief Lorah stated that relatives described Stone as exercising "significant control" over the household for years, including managing finances and restricting movements.
Police described the interior of the home as "extremely filthy," noting that the kitchen sink, toilet, and shower did not appear to be functional. Investigators found drug paraphernalia and numerous bottles containing urine throughout the residence. While family members raised concerns regarding Stone's mental health and suspected methamphetamine use, Lorah noted that no formal medical diagnosis was found in records, and the specific role of drugs in the event remains unknown.
According to police, a .40 caliber handgun used in the shooting was the same weapon involved in a 2019 domestic violence charge against Stone. Those charges were withdrawn after Michelle Stone changed her statement during a preliminary hearing. Evidence found at the scene, including packed bags in Angelina Stone's room and messages she sent, indicated that she was planning to leave the residence after she gave birth.
The city's ShotSpotter system recorded the shots just three minutes after the final two victims arrived at the house. This timeline resulted in the deployment of SWAT and hostage negotiation teams between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Police breached the barricaded front door after 7 p.m., discovering the victims on different floors of the residence.
Local officials stated that the focus will now shift toward community healing and evaluating systemic responses to domestic instability. While the criminal investigation has established the sequence of events, Chief Lorah emphasized that the specific motivation for Stone's actions remains unconfirmed. No further court proceedings are expected regarding the deceased suspect.