US man commits murder-suicide, leaving 5 children orphaned.

He fatally shot her in the head before turning the gun on himself

A man from Pennsylvania tragically took the lives of his wife and himself, leaving their five children orphaned just days before Christmas. The incident occurred during an argument between Blase, 39, and Brooke Raia, 34, in their Greenwood residence’s basement, according to Logan Township Police Chief Dave Hoover as reported by the Altoona Mirror.

The man shot his wife in the head before taking his own life, according to the police. The apparent murder-suicide took place while the couple’s four younger children were at home. The eldest child discovered the bodies of their parents half an hour later. The children, named Blakely (daughter), Blase Jr., Brennan, Kamden, and Easton, were interviewed and are now under the care of other family members.

According to Jim Patterson, a retired employee, the man was well-liked by his colleagues and described him as a nice guy and a good worker.

Candy Holliday, a family friend and neighbor, is raising funds for the man’s funeral and mentioned that he deeply cherished his children. Brooke Raia was employed at a nearby chiropractic office, and her obituary mentioned her previous work at the Amazon warehouse in Altoona.

The couple, who got married in 2022, were both passionate about racing. Brooke Raia’s father was a prominent motorcycle racer and later became an announcer at a local speedway. Meanwhile, the man pursued drag racing as a hobby.

In response to the tragic loss, the racing community has rallied together to support the orphaned children, raising over $56,000 for them.

Donny Algieri, the fundraiser, emphasized the importance of backing the children during this difficult time and ensuring they know they have the support of both the racing community and their family.