EAST LANSDOWNE, Pennsylvania – A tragic event shook the community of East Lansdowne, Delaware County, when a shooting and house fire claimed the lives of a family. The Le family, consisting of Xuong Le, his wife Britni McLaughlin-Le, and their three children, 10-year-old Xavier, 13-year-old NaKayla, and 17-year-old NaTalya, were remembered at a touching vigil held at Yeadon Community Park. The family’s remains were recovered from the devastating fire that engulfed their home on Lewis Avenue.
The vigil was an opportunity for loved ones and community members to honor the lives of the victims and provide support to each other in the wake of the tragedy. Britni McLaughlin-Le’s father, John McLaughlin, spoke at the vigil, sharing heartfelt memories of his daughter and her family. He described Britni and her husband’s loving relationship of 17 years and the positive impact they had on everyone around them.
Authorities believe that the shooter responsible for the incident was Xuong Le’s brother, 43-year-old Canh Le. The terrifying event not only resulted in the deaths of the family members but also left two police officers injured. Fortunately, the injured officers, John Meehan and David Schiazza, have been treated and released from the hospital.
As the community grapples with the immense loss, friends of the youngest victim, NaKayla, expressed their grief and shared memories of their beloved friend. NaKayla was a talented dancer at Cathie Collins Dance Studio, where she was cherished by her peers and instructors. The studio expressed their heartache at the loss of NaKayla, a sentiment echoed by the entire community as they come together to support each other during this difficult time.
The tragic unfolding of events began with a 911 call reporting a child being shot, which ultimately led to a fire engulfing the family’s home. Canh Le’s mother, Chin Le, described hearing her son arguing with his 13-year-old niece before the situation escalated. Soon after, shots were fired, and the devastating sequence of events unfolded.
The incident left a profound impact on the entire East Lansdowne community, with the mayor expressing the collective grief and pain felt by all. Balloons, teddy bears, and heartfelt messages now surround the Le family’s home, serving as symbols of the community’s solidarity and support during this tumultuous time.
The tragic events have not only left a void in the hearts of the victims’ loved ones but have also deeply affected the wider community. As investigations into the incident continue, the community remains united in honoring the lives that were lost and providing solace to those who have been impacted by this incomprehensible tragedy.