Police believe a ‘typical American family’ was killed in a tragedy involving murder-suicide.

Authorities are investigating an apparent murder-suicide after a family of four was found dead last week in their Pennsylvania home. 

Paul Swarner, 35, Karen Swarner, 32, and their two young children were found dead in their house in Hempfield Township, Pennsylvania, on the morning of Friday, Jan. 24, according to police and a public report by the Westmoreland County Coroner.

Law enforcement believe Paul Swarner shot and killed his wife and two children before killing himself, Trooper Steve Limani of the Pennsylvania State Police explained in a press conference Friday, covered by WTAE.

“It’s unthinkable, unfathomable. To be honest with you, I don’t have the words to describe how awful it is,” Limani said. “You’re talking about your wife, but then a 5-year-old and a 1-year-old. It’s just devastating.”

“Generally in the holidays we do have most of our problems…when it comes to mental health,” Limani said.

“I don’t know what was going on with Paul. I don’t know why it would’ve happened,” he added. “I hope we’re able to find some answers.” 

Authorities asked that anyone with information contact state police in Greensburg.