Family of Chattanooga gunman offers condolences to victims' families
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. -- The family of Mohammod Youssuf Abdulazeez, the gunman accused of killing four Marines and a Navy sailor, broke its silence Saturday night, releasing a statement offering condolences to the victims' families.
"We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of the honorable servicemembers and police officers who were victims of the shooting our son committed on Thursday in Chattanooga, Tennessee -- our community, and one we have loved for over twenty-five years," the statement said. "Our prayers go out to the victims' families, friends, and everyone who is affected by this tragedy."
The statement was distributed by a lawyer on behalf of the family.
"There are no words to describe our shock, horror, and grief," the family said. "The person who committed this horrible crime was not the son we knew and loved."
His family said the 24-year-old, who also died Thursday, suffered from depression "for many years." An autopsy will determine whether he took his own life or was shot by authorities.
"It grieves us beyond belief to know that his pain found its expression in this heinous act of violence," the family said.
The four Marines were shot and killed in the second of two attacks on military sites Thursday in Chattanooga, which authorities believe a heavily-armed Abdulazeez carried out alone. The fifth victim died from his wounds early Saturday morning at a hospital.
Abdulazeez's relatives said they were cooperating with investigators.
"We understand there are many legitimate questions that need to be answered," the statement said. "Having said this, now is the time to reflect on the victims and their families, and we feel it would be inappropriate to say anything more other than that we are truly sorry for their loss."
Authorities are looking into the shooting as a terrorism investigation and probing whether Abdulazeez was inspired or directed by any terrorist organization. The motive for the attacks remains unclear.