Parents and Their Two Young Children Found Dead at Home

A family member made a heartbreaking discovery on the morning of January 24, finding the lifeless bodies of four relatives in their Hempfield Township home.
Authorities are investigating an apparent murder-suicide involving Paul Swarner, his wife Karen, and their two young children, Evelyn and Connor.
According to the Westmoreland County Coroner’s report and police records, it was Karen’s father who discovered the devastating scene. Concerned after multiple unanswered calls on January 23—an unusual occurrence given their close communication—he decided to check on them. The following morning, he entered their home and made the tragic discovery before calling 911.
A Quiet Home Shattered by Tragedy
Pennsylvania State Trooper Steve Limani addressed the media, stating that preliminary findings suggest Paul took the lives of his wife and children before turning a Ruger .22 handgun on himself.
The official manner and cause of death are still pending the coroner’s report, but initial details indicate that Karen, 32, died at approximately 4:35 a.m. on January 24, while Paul, 35, passed away five minutes later. The bodies of all four family members were found in the same room.
“To be honest with you, I don’t have the words to describe how awful it is,” Limani shared. “You’re talking about a wife, but then also a 5-year-old and a 1-year-old. It’s just devastating.”
Investigators are still searching for answers. A relative who spoke with Karen on January 22 reported no signs of trouble or distress. There were no known conflicts, financial struggles, or red flags suggesting imminent danger. Now, authorities are actively working to uncover what may have triggered such an unthinkable act.
Searching for Clues in a Picture-Perfect Home
Investigators are reviewing electronic devices in the home, including a baby camera, hoping they might provide insight into what led Paul to commit such a horrific act. However, Limani acknowledged that no explanation could ever truly lessen the pain felt by those affected.
Records indicate that neither Paul nor Karen had any prior criminal history or reports of domestic violence. They had been married for about 10 years and appeared to be well-established in their careers. Their home, filled with children’s toys and family photos, painted a picture of what seemed like an ordinary, happy household.
“I don’t know what was going on with Paul,” Limani admitted. “I don’t know why this happened. I hope we’re able to find some answers. It’s extremely, extremely sad.”
A Community in Mourning
Neighbors were left stunned by the tragedy. Dick Shawley, who lived nearby, recalled the police presence outside the home but never heard anything unusual leading up to that night.
Though he wasn’t particularly close to the Swarner family, he had fond memories of small moments shared with them. He recalled playing Santa Claus for their children during the holidays and gifting them Christmas presents.
“They were always jumping around and happy,” Shawley said, his voice heavy with emotion. “I played Santa over there… and I’ll never get it out of my mind. Such devastation. Such precious little lives.”
A Growing Concern for Mental Health Awareness
The deaths of Paul, Karen, Evelyn, and Connor mark the second murder-suicide in Westmoreland County since December 2024.
While the exact circumstances behind this tragedy remain unclear, Limani urged families to stay connected, communicate openly, and seek support for mental health concerns. He emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships and recognizing when loved ones might need help.
“No one should struggle in silence,” he said. “If you or someone you know is facing difficulties, please reach out. Support is available.”
As investigators work to piece together what happened inside that home, the community mourns the loss of a family whose lives were cut tragically short.