PLAINVILLE, Conn. — A tragic act of violence has left a community in deep shock after four lives were lost in a murder-suicide Friday night at a home on Milford Street. The devastating incident has shaken residents and left families mourning an unimaginable loss.

According to authorities, 27-year-old Patrick J. King fatally shot his girlfriend, 31-year-old Felisha Matthews, along with her two daughters, 12-year-old Mileena Matthews and 4-year-old Ava R. King. Police say King then took his own life, bringing a tragic end to the situation that unfolded behind closed doors.

The incident came to light when a concerned family member called 911, reporting that King had confessed to killing his family and intended to harm himself. Emergency responders, including SWAT teams, quickly arrived at the scene and began efforts to communicate with him during a tense standoff that lasted nearly two hours.

When those attempts failed, officers deployed pepper gas into the home in hopes of resolving the situation safely. Shortly after, King shot himself. He was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment but later died from his injuries. Authorities confirmed that all victims died from gunshot wounds.

Police said the family had only recently moved into the home in mid-January, and there had been no prior reports of disturbances at the residence. King legally owned the firearm used in the incident and had a valid permit to carry, adding to the shock felt by neighbors who described the area as quiet and peaceful.

The loss has deeply impacted the community, especially as Mileena Matthews was a student at the Middle School of Plainville. School officials have announced that counseling and support services will be available for students and staff. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward while the community mourns and remembers the lives tragically cut short.