Dominga Cedano-Cedano, Ana Gutierrez-Cedano Obituary, Death – Authorities in Lancaster County are investigating a tragic domestic incident that occurred Sunday afternoon in West Hempfield Township. According to the Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office, 63-year-old Santiago Payano-Sanchez has been charged in connection with the deaths of two family members and the injury of another during a family dispute that escalated at a home on Oak Hollow Drive.
The District Attorney’s Office identified the two women who lost their lives as Ana Gutierrez-Cedano, 59, who was Payano-Sanchez’s estranged wife, and Dominga Cedano-Cedano, 74, his sister-in-law. A third individual, Luis Payano, 33, the suspect’s son, was seriously injured but survived after receiving emergency medical care. Officials say he is currently recovering at a local hospital following surgery.
The incident reportedly occurred around 4:50 p.m. on Sunday. Authorities say that an argument among several family members turned heated, leading to the tragic outcome. The District Attorney’s statement noted that the suspect was involved in ongoing disagreements with others in the household over the weekend. During the confrontation, he allegedly used a firearm, which was later determined to be legally owned, and then contacted relatives shortly afterward to express remorse for his actions.
Two children, ages 2 and 7, were inside the home when the event took place but were not physically harmed. Officials emphasized that they are safe and currently under the care of other family members.
West Hempfield Township Police Chief Jason Jay described the situation as heartbreaking. “It’s an absolute tragedy,” he said in an interview with News 8. “Any loss of life is a tragedy. We’re grateful the children were not physically injured.” Chief Jay added that the event appears to be an isolated case and that there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Neighbors expressed shock over the situation. Glenn DuPont, who lives nearby, said that while he occasionally heard arguments from the home, nothing suggested that something so severe could happen. “You might hear some voices raised now and then, but never anything like this. It’s just devastating,” he told reporters.
When first responders arrived at the scene, both women were already unresponsive. Authorities say Payano-Sanchez made two phone calls shortly after the incident in which he admitted responsibility. He was taken into custody and treated for what officials described as minor self-inflicted injuries before being placed under arrest.
A video taken by a nearby resident showed law enforcement officers approaching the home and instructing a person believed to be the suspect to “lay down on the ground.” A Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) was also called to assist during the arrest.
The charges filed against Payano-Sanchez include two counts of criminal homicide, one count of attempted criminal homicide, aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of children, and possession of an instrument of crime.
Chief Jay confirmed that the firearm involved was legally owned and that the suspect held a valid concealed carry permit. Investigators are continuing to collect evidence and interview witnesses to piece together the timeline leading up to the violence.
Residents of the quiet suburban neighborhood remain shaken. Several told reporters that they heard loud noises and shouting before emergency vehicles arrived. “I heard people crying and yelling, and then police cars came rushing in,” one neighbor said, asking not to be identified.
Local authorities are now focusing on supporting the surviving family members and ensuring that the two young children receive the care and counseling they need. Police continue to investigate what may have sparked the argument that led to such devastating consequences.
Chief Jay reiterated the department’s sympathy for the affected family and the community at large. “It’s something no family or neighborhood should have to experience,” he said. “Our officers and first responders are working hard to bring closure and ensure everyone’s safety.”
As of Monday, Santiago Payano-Sanchez remains in custody awaiting court proceedings. The District Attorney’s Office has not yet released details about his upcoming hearing.
