Police Detail Years of Control Before Erie Killings

Police say Matthew Stone Sr. maintained years of control over his wife, children and grandchildren, restricting their movements and contact with relatives and controlling family finances. Investigators described the Erie home as isolated and filthy, with nonworking plumbing, and said relatives had raised concerns about Stone’s mental health and possible substance abuse. Stone killed eight people, including his wife, three adult children, two young grandchildren, and two women who came to help; his pregnant daughter and her unborn child were among the victims. Police said the gun used in the killings was also involved in a 2019 domestic-violence case, but charges were withdrawn after his wife changed her statement. His daughter had filed to change her last name amid concerns about her father’s worsening mental health and was reportedly planning to leave, while investigators said they still do not know what prompted the killings.