Jay Todd Fray, 65, and his wife, Kathryn Ann Fray, 59, were found shot to death inside their home on Blair Drive in Neshannock Township, a quiet stretch of Lawrence County that rarely sees police tape. Investigators say the case is being treated as a murder-suicide, a grim discovery that has shaken the neighborhood.
Police were called to the home around 8:30 Wednesday morning after a family member went to check on the couple. Repeated calls had gone unanswered. When the relative walked inside and found both Jay and Kathryn dead, a 911 call followed immediately.
Neshannock Township officers were the first to arrive. Once they realized the seriousness of what they were dealing with, they asked for help from Pennsylvania State Police. The Troop D Major Case Team soon took control of the scene, sealing off the house and beginning a detailed forensic examination.
Lawrence County Coroner Richard “R.J.” Johnson later confirmed the identities and causes of death. Kathryn Fray died from a single gunshot wound to the chest. Her death was ruled a homicide. Jay Fray died from a single gunshot wound to the neck, and his death was ruled a suicide.
The coroner said evidence at the scene suggested the shootings likely happened Sunday afternoon, days before anyone realized something was wrong. There was no sign that anyone else was inside the home at the time, and investigators have said they are not looking for any additional suspects.
State police Corporal Randy Guy said local officers acted quickly and appropriately before turning the case over to state investigators. Detectives and forensic teams spent hours inside the home, carefully documenting the scene and collecting evidence to establish a clear timeline.
So far, officials have shared little about what may have led up to the shooting. There have been no reports of prior domestic calls at the address, and police have not discussed whether a firearm was recovered or what type of weapon was used.
The Frays lived in a residential area made up mostly of single-family homes, just east of New Castle and about 50 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. Neighbors described the area as calm and close-knit, the kind of place where something like this feels almost unreal.
Authorities stressed that there is no danger to the public. The investigation remains active as state police and the coroner’s office complete toxicology tests and review all evidence. Anyone with information is urged 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 and Crisis Lifeline at 988. Support is free and available around the clock.
