PA Woman Kathryn Fray ID’d As Victim In Wednesday New Castle Murder-Suicide Jay Fray Shooter

NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP, PA (THECOUNT) — Jay Todd Fray, 65, and Kathryn Ann Fray, 59, were identified by Pennsylvania State Police as the two people found shot to death inside their Blair Drive home in Neshannock Township on Wednesday morning in what investigators have described as a murder-suicide.

According to authorities, Neshannock Township police were initially dispatched to the residence around 8:30 a.m. Wednesday after a family member went to check on the couple and discovered them deceased. The family member had reportedly been unable to contact the couple prior to going to the home and called 911 upon making the discovery.

Pennsylvania State Police Troop D Major Case Team responded to the scene shortly after local officers recognized the severity of the circumstances. The investigation was turned over to state police for further examination and processing of the residence.

Lawrence County Coroner Richard “R.J.” Johnson confirmed both identities and determined the causes and manners of death following post-mortem examinations. Johnson reported that Kathryn Fray died from a single gunshot wound to the chest and ruled her death a homicide. Jay Fray died from a single gunshot wound to the neck. His death was ruled a suicide.

Coroner Johnson said findings at the scene and the condition of the bodies were consistent with the shootings having occurred Sunday afternoon, several days before the discovery was made. Authorities have not released information indicating anyone else was present inside the home at the time of the incident.

State police Cpl. Randy Guy said Neshannock Township officers responded first to the home before requesting assistance from state police investigators and forensic personnel. Detectives from the Troop D Major Case Team processed the scene as part of the ongoing investigation.

Officials have not released details regarding what may have led up to the incident, and police have not indicated any prior calls for service at the residence related to domestic disturbances. Authorities have stated the investigation remains active as they work to determine the full timeline and circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Neshannock Township is located in Lawrence County in western Pennsylvania, just east of the City of New Castle and approximately 50 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. The residential neighborhood where the couple lived is comprised primarily of single-family homes along quiet township roads. The area is served by local township police with investigative support from Pennsylvania State Police for major incidents.

Law enforcement officials remained at the residence for several hours Wednesday as forensic teams documented the scene, collected evidence, and conducted a thorough examination of the property. No additional suspects are being sought in connection with the case.

The Lawrence County Coroner’s Office is continuing to work alongside state police as part of the standard investigative process, which includes toxicology testing and evidence analysis. Authorities have not announced when those results may become available.

Police have not disclosed whether a firearm was recovered at the scene or provided additional details about the weapon involved.

Officials emphasized that there is no threat to the public stemming from this incident.

Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is asked to contact Pennsylvania State Police Troop D.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available. Call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. Support is free and available 24/7.

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