West Bethlehem, Pennsylvania – With profound sadness and heavy hearts, the West Bethlehem community mourns the tragic loss of Sarah A. Rice and Greg A. Johnson, whose lives were cut short by a devastating act of gun violence Friday night. Their passing has left an immeasurable void in the lives of their loved ones and has shaken a neighborhood now united in grief, reflection, and remembrance.
Authorities confirmed that Sarah and Greg were found deceased in a home in the 200 block of 10th Avenue after a heartbreaking sequence of events unfolded late Friday evening. According to the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office, both were pronounced dead at approximately 11:30 p.m., having suffered fatal gunshot injuries. The shootings are believed to have occurred around 10 p.m., and autopsies are scheduled as part of the ongoing investigation.
What makes this tragedy especially painful is the innocence surrounding the discovery. Bethlehem police reported that a 911 call was placed by an adult who had just dropped off a child following a playdate. When the child briefly entered the home and quickly returned, reporting a “serious issue,” authorities were notified. Officers responding to the scene discovered Sarah and Greg inside the home, both having lost their lives.
Inside the residence at the time were two children and an older adult, all of whom were unharmed. Police stated that the older adult is not considered a suspect and appeared unaware that anything had occurred. The three children who lived in the home, identified as the children of the deceased, have since been placed in the care of family members—surrounded by loved ones during a moment no child should ever have to endure.
The Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office, alongside the Bethlehem Police Department, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Officials have emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the community, but the emotional impact of this loss continues to ripple through the city.
Sarah Rice and Greg Johnson were more than victims of a tragedy—they were parents, family members, friends, and individuals whose lives carried meaning and love. Those who knew them speak of their humanity, their presence, and the bonds they shared with their children and loved ones. Their absence is deeply felt, and their memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who cherished them.
In honor of Sarah and Greg, a candlelight vigil was scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Sunday evening outside the home at 209 10th Avenue. Organized by community members, the vigil serves not only as a moment of remembrance but also as a call for awareness about domestic violence—a reminder of the importance of support, prevention, and compassion within our communities.
As the community grieves, family members of Sarah Rice have established an online fundraising effort to help support her family during this unimaginable time. The outpouring of love, prayers, and generosity reflects the deep compassion shared by those touched by this tragedy.
Today, we remember Sarah A. Rice and Greg A. Johnson—two lives taken far too soon. We honor their memories, hold their children close in our thoughts, and stand with their families as they navigate a journey of grief and healing. May their souls rest in peace, and may their loved ones find strength in the love that surrounds them.
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