Vigil For Slain Bensalem Middle Schooler

Updated: 12:16 p.m. Thursday

BENSALEM TOWNSHIP, PA —The Bensalem Township School District is mourning the loss of one of its students.

Schools Superintendent Samuel Lee sent out a letter to the Bensalem Township Community Wednesday to "address the deeply troubling and distressing incident" that occurred with a triple shooting in Bensalem on Halloween night.

"It is with a heavy heart that I share that Peter Romano was tragically killed," Lee said in his letter which also included School Board President Eric Price and Vice President Kim Rivera. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the affected individuals and their families during this incredibly challenging time."

Romano, 14, a Snyder Middle School student, was one of three teenagers who were shot around Bristol Pike at 7:35 p.m. Tuesday, police said. Romano was shot in the chest and pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

A vigil was expected to take place at 6 p.m. Thursday at the strip mall at 2636 Bristol Pike, the spot of the shooting, where family and friends will gather.

Bensalem Township Police are seeking the public's help in finding the vehicle where the shots came from at 2600 Bristol Pike that happened in the area of Bristol Pike and Woodbine Avenue where a large group of juveniles were fighting.

Two other Bensalem students —a 17-year-old and a 19-year-old — were also treated for gunshot wounds. The 19-year-old male was released from the hospital while the 17-year-old underwent surgery to repair injuries to both legs, police said.

Bensalem Police are investigating the incident.

Lee said that the safety and well-being of students, staff, and community members are of the "utmost importance."

"We understand the profound impact that such traumatic events can have on our community, and we are committed to providing the support and resources to heal and recover," the superintendent said.

Lee said the school district has taken immediate steps to address the emotional and psychological needs of students and staff.

He said that counseling support is available to those who may be struggling to cope with the "emotional aftermath" of this incident.

He said that mental health teams are available to offer counseling, guidance, and a safe space for students and staff to express their feelings, ask questions, and find support.

"Please remember that you are not alone during this difficult time," the superintendent said.