WEST HEMPFIELD TWP, PA – A West Hempfield Township man has been charged after a domestic dispute turned deadly, resulting in the deaths of his estranged wife and sister-in-law, and serious injuries to his adult son.
Santiago Payano-Sanchez, 63, faces two counts of criminal homicide and additional charges including attempted criminal homicide, aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of children, and possession of an instrument of crime.
The shooting occurred at Payano-Sanchez’s residence in the 2100 block of Oak Hollow Drive. His estranged wife, Ana Gutierrez-Cedano, 59, and her sister, Dominga Cedano-Cedano, 74, were both killed. His 33-year-old son was shot in the stomach and remains in stable condition after emergency surgery.
Two children, ages 2 and 7, were inside the home at the time but were not harmed. According to a family member, the argument had lasted throughout the weekend and escalated when Payano-Sanchez pulled a gun from his waistband and began shooting.
Following the incident, Payano-Sanchez called family members to apologize. Responding officers located the two female victims deceased at the scene and took Payano-Sanchez into custody. He was treated for superficial self-inflicted injuries.
Police initially requested a Special Emergency Response Team for what was believed to be a barricaded gunman, but Payano-Sanchez surrendered before the team arrived. The firearm used in the incident was legally owned, and Payano-Sanchez possessed a concealed carry permit.
Judge Mary Sponaugle denied bail in a preliminary arraignment. Autopsies for the deceased victims are scheduled.
Det. Sgt. Robert Bradfield of the West Hempfield Township Police Department filed the charges.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
