Dominic Perna, a 37-year-old Italian-American man, tragically lost his life on November 5, 1934, in Kelayres, Pennsylvania. His death was part of a violent incident known as the Kelayres Massacre, which occurred during an election eve parade. The parade, organized by Democrats, was meant to celebrate their political rally and protest against the long-standing Republican rule in the area.
However, it turned into a bloodbath when Joseph Bruno, a Schuylkill County detective and Republican leader, along with his family, opened fire on the unarmed paraders.
The gunfire resulted in the deaths of five individuals, including Dominic Perna, who succumbed to his injuries two days later. The other victims were Frank Fiorella , William Forke , Joseph Galosky , and Andrew Kostician , who died the following day. In total, 13 others were wounded during the attack. The incident was a significant and tragic event in the history of Kelayres, leading to widespread outrage and a funeral Mass held for the victims at the bullet-riddled Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church.
Following the massacre, Joseph Bruno and several members of his family, including his brother, nephew, and two others, were arrested and tried for the crime. They were convicted and received life sentences for their involvement in the attack. The Kelayres Massacre remains a dark chapter in the political history of the region, highlighting the extreme tensions and violence that can arise from political conflicts.
