Pregnant Woman Called Her Aunt for Help — Moments Later, Both Women Were Killed in Pennsylvania Mass Shooting

A desperate call for help became part of a devastating tragedy in Erie, Pennsylvania, where two women were killed after rushing to help a pregnant family member who feared she was in danger.

According to People, 24-year-old Angelina Stone, who was eight months pregnant, contacted her aunt, 37-year-old Lora Roberts, through a Facebook video call on October 9, 2026. Roberts reportedly told Angelina she was on her way to help. She also alerted another family member that Angelina needed assistance.

Roberts arrived at the family’s home with 51-year-old Twila Tanner, a family friend. Investigators said the two women appeared distressed and sought help from nearby neighbors.

Tragically, both women were fatally shot outside the residence.

A Family Tragedy Unfolds

Police identified the suspected gunman as 45-year-old Matthew Stone Sr., Angelina’s father. Authorities said eight family members and a family friend were killed in the shooting before the suspected gunman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The victims included Angelina, her mother Michelle Stone, her two brothers, her two young children, Roberts and Tanner. Angelina’s unborn baby was also lost.

Investigators believe the violence began inside the home before the gunman came outside and shot the two women who had arrived to help.

What Investigators Discovered

During a press briefing, Erie Police Chief Rick Lorah said investigators had heard troubling accounts from relatives about the family’s living conditions and the level of control Matthew Stone Sr. allegedly exercised over household members.

According to police, family members described years of isolation and restrictions on their contact with relatives, as well as control over household finances. Investigators also reported finding the home in extremely poor condition.

Authorities have continued examining evidence and interviewing people connected to the family to establish the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Remembering the Women Who Tried to Help

Tanner’s daughter described her mother as a caring person who wanted to help others. She said her mother had gone to assist someone she loved and lost her life in the process.

The circumstances surrounding the women’s final actions have become a particularly painful part of the tragedy: they responded after Angelina reached out for help, but neither returned home.

The investigation has also raised broader concerns about domestic abuse, family isolation and the difficulty loved ones may face when trying to intervene in a dangerous situation.

Source: People