This story originally was published Feb. 22, 2016.
KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WZZM) -- The family of alleged Kalamazoo shooting suspect Jason Dalton released a statement Monday afternoon.
"There are no words which can express our shock and disbelief, and we are devastated and saddened for the victims and the families of the victims," reads the statement, in part.
Dalton faces six counts of open murder, two counts of assault with intent to commit murder and eight counts of felony firearm. The Associated Press reports Dalton admitted to the killings.
The statement is posted below:
The Dalton Family would like to expresses our deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims of the shootings in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Saturday February 20, 2016. There are no words which can express our shock and disbelief, and we are devastated and saddened for the victims and the families of the victims. We cannot comprehend the grief which you are feeling, and, while it seems woefully inadequate, we are deeply sorry and are praying for everyone affected.
We would also like to express our prayers and concern for the two persons who are currently hospitalized. We are praying for both of you, and for your families.
We also want to express our support and gratitude to our local law enforcement agencies whose quick and decisive action prevented any further acts of violence. We are grateful for your diligent work in the service of the community.
Our hope is for peace and healing for the victims, the families of the victims, the Kalamazoo Community and those touched by these events throughout the Nation. This type of violence has no place in our society, and we express our love and support for everyone involved. We intend to cooperate in every way that we can to help determine why and how this occurred.
It is very difficult to find words that can adequately express our thoughts, and we would ask that the media respect our family's privacy at this time. Any questions can be directed to our attorneys Paul Vlachos and Brian Weiss at Vlachos & Vlachos, P.C. in Kalamazoo.