The family members of the 19-year-old alleged San Diego synagogue shooting suspect said in a newly released statement they are both "shocked and deeply saddened" following the incident that left one dead and at least three injured.
"But our sadness pales in comparison to the grief and anguish our son has caused for so many innocent people. He has killed and injured the faithful who were gathered in a sacred place on a sacred day," the statement, released Monday, read.
John T. Earnest opened fire inside the Chabad of Poway synagogue Saturday when the sanctuary was filled with about 100 congregants on the last day of Passover, police said. He fled the scene but was later arrested.
Earnest's family said their son's alleged hateful actions came from people they do not know and ideas they do not hold.
"How our son was attracted to such a darkness is a terrifying mystery to us, though we are confident that law enforcement will uncover many details of the path that he took to this evil and despicable act."
They also added that he, like their other five children, grew up in a family, faith and community that taught love and rejected hate.
The family is cooperating with police during the investigation and has asked for privacy.
Lori Kaye, 60, of Poway, was killed in the shooting after she jumped in front of Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, friends told the San Diego Union-Tribune. Goldstein was struck in the index fingers of both hands, but refused to end his Passover sermon, witnesses said.
Earnest's family said they will keep both the victims and survivors in the tragic incident in their hearts forever.
"To our great shame, (Earnest) is now part of the history of evil that has been perpetrated on Jewish people for centuries."
