EAST LANSDOWNE, Pennsylvania – Authorities suspect that a tragic fire in East Lansdowne, Delaware County, claimed the lives of six family members, as they investigate the possibility that a relative killed them before dying themselves. District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer disclosed on Friday that the fire, which engulfed the home on Wednesday, resulted in the recovery of six sets of remains. Among those believed to be involved is Canh Le, 43, who is suspected of killing his niece and potentially the others as well. Le is also believed to be deceased.
Hints of gunfire were evident during a 911 call, and Stollsteimer reported that Le’s mother told authorities that he had shot one of her grandchildren. The surviving family members are in shock, and no clear motive has been identified as of yet.
The victims include Xuong Le, his wife Britni McLaughlin-Le, and their three children NaKayla, NaTayla, and Xavier, who are all presumed dead. The impact of this devastating loss is keenly felt by the community, as expressed by East Lansdowne Mayor Majovie Bland, who described the pain that the community is enduring.
Two police officers were injured during the chaotic incident, but one was released from the hospital on Friday afternoon. The other officer was released the day prior. Both officers have over two decades of experience with their respective departments.
The tragedy unfolded with a 911 call reporting a child being shot, followed by a destructive fire erupting at the residence on Lewis Ave. The intensity of the situation was evident, with stories of heroism emerging as responding officers were met with gunfire. The Upper Darby Police Department played a crucial role in rescuing the wounded officers, with Superintendent Timothy Bernhardt describing the scene as volatile and dangerous.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to recover bodies and evidence from the scene of the tragedy. As they continue their work, the community remains in mourning, grappling with the immense loss of life and the trauma inflicted by the events on Wednesday.