BETHLEHEM, Pa. — The Bethlehem community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Sarah A. Rice, 39, and Greg A. Johnson, 42, a couple whose lives ended far too soon in a tragic incident Friday night in West Bethlehem. Their deaths have left family members, friends, and neighbors grappling with profound grief, unanswered questions, and an overwhelming sense of loss.
According to the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office, Sarah and Greg were found deceased in the basement of their home in the 200 block of 10th Avenue. Authorities have described the incident as an apparent murder-suicide, though officials have not released details regarding who fired the fatal shots. Autopsies to determine the official cause and manner of death are scheduled to be completed Monday, according to Lehigh County Coroner Daniel Buglio.
What makes this tragedy even more devastating is the presence of children whose lives have been forever altered. Police said officers were dispatched to the home around 10:15 p.m. after an adult dropped off one of the couple’s three children following a playdate. Moments later, the child returned outside and told the adult that something was seriously wrong inside the residence. Authorities were then contacted, leading to the discovery that would shock the community and change multiple lives in an instant.
Sarah Rice is being remembered by loved ones as a caring, devoted, and compassionate woman whose presence brought warmth and light to those around her. Friends describe her as someone who loved deeply and gave generously, especially to her children, who were the center of her world. Her laughter, kindness, and strength left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
Greg Johnson, also a Bethlehem resident, leaves behind memories shared with family and friends who are now struggling to understand how such a tragedy could unfold. Those who knew him recall moments of connection, shared experiences, and the complexity of a life that, like so many others, was more than a single moment or ending.
In the wake of this loss, the community has come together to support Sarah’s children and loved ones. Friends and family have organized a vigil scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Sunday evening, to be held outside the home on 10th Avenue. The gathering is intended as a moment of remembrance, reflection, and solidarity—an opportunity for neighbors and loved ones to honor Sarah’s life, mourn the loss of both individuals, and offer comfort to the family during an unimaginably painful time. A GoFundMe has also been established to assist with expenses and to help support the children as they face the difficult road ahead.
This tragedy serves as a solemn reminder of the importance of compassion, mental health awareness, and community support. As Bethlehem mourns, residents are holding one another a little closer, lighting candles in the darkness, and remembering the lives of Sarah A. Rice and Greg A. Johnson not only for how they died, but for the moments, love, and memories they shared while they lived.
May Sarah and Greg rest in peace, and may their children and loved ones find strength, comfort, and healing in the days to come.
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