The community of Mt. Lebanon is still reeling after the devastating news of a murder/suicide on Tuesday when a father took his own life after killing his two young children.
42-year-old Patrick Lynch died along with 8-year-old James and 6-year-old Caroline.
There has been a community-wide outpouring of caring and support with several memorials, fundraisers and more.
In addition to a GoFundMe set up for mother Anna DeMase Lynch, several memorials, remembrances and other events are being held along with support for those that need it.
A makeshift Memorial set up to honor the Lynch family has been moved from behind the municipal building to the pavilion at Clearview Common on the 700 block of Washington Road.
“That area is a safe place away from traffic/deliveries to gather and remember … and the location will keep the memorials out of tonight's rain.”
Outreach Teen & Family Services on the 600 block of Washington Road is offering support to anyone in the community that may need it. They can call 412-561-5405.
Visit Outreach’s Facebook page for additional information.
Librarians at the Mt. Lebanon Public Library have gathered a list of resources and books for families in need. The Library is also hosting a therapy dog hour at 7 p.m. on Wednesday.
A prayer vigil is planned for St. Bernard’s on the 300 block of Washington Road at 6:30 p.m. and a neurodivergent parent community support meeting is planned for 7:30 p.m. (location to be determined).
Several other churches, including Mt. Lebanon Evangelical Presbyterian Church and Bethany Lutheran Church have extended their prayers to the family and community.
For those that can’t make Wednesday’s vigil, one is being held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on the 1000 block of Washington Road on Thursday, November 5 at 7 p.m.
“All are welcome,” the Mt. Lebanon Interfaith Clergy said in a release.
The Jewish Community Center in the South Hills held a special program on Wednesday morning. The children were part of the early learning center.
Caroline is being remembered by groups and organizations she was a part of.
Born with a genetic disorder that affects various parts of the body, Williams syndrome, Caroline is being remembered at her swim school and daycare.
In a conversation with KDKA Radio, Christine Michaels, CEO of NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness Keystone Pennsylvania, discussed warning signs families shouldn't ignore, how to approach someone who may be struggling, and when to seek professional help.
"Behaviors will give you the biggest signals, like personality changes. If someone starts talking about ending their life, you know, like, 'Everybody would be better off if I wasn't here.' That, that kind of talk in a serious tone, and, and consistently and frequently over a period of time,” said Michaels.
Michaels says families looking for help can contact NAMI Keystone Pennsylvania at 412-366-3788 or call 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Several members of the community tell KDKA Radio that Anna is heavily involved in supporting children in the community, helping start a non-profit called the Inclusion Collective, which helps schools and communities become more welcoming to children with disabilities.
Learn more about the Inclusion Collective HERE.
Resources, memorials and more information
Resources, memorials and more information
