The Family of the Poway Synagogue Shooting Suspect Issues Statement

The family of John T. Earnest, the suspect in the fatal weekend shooting at a Poway synagogue, issued a statement today condemning the violence as an ``evil and despicable act.''

``We are shocked and deeply saddened by the terrible attack on the Chabad of Poway synagogue,'' according to the 19-year-old man's family. ``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. To our great shame, he is now part of the history of evil that has been perpetrated on Jewish people for centuries.

``Our son's actions were informed by people we do not know, and ideas we do not hold. Like our other five children, he was raised in a family, a faith and a community that all rejected hate and taught that love must be the motive for everything we do. How our son was attracted to such 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. To that end, our family is cooperating with investigators. We ask only that the media and the public respect our privacy and allow the criminal justice system to work. ``Our heavy hearts will forever go out to the victims and survivors.

Our thanks go to the first responders who prevented even greater loss of life and the well-wishers who have supported us. And we pray for peace.''

Earnest, of Rancho Penasquitos, is being held on suspicion of murder and attempted murder in connection with Saturday's shooting at Congregation Chabad in Poway.

Lori Gilbert Kaye, 60, was killed in the shooting and three others were injured, including Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, who lost a finger on his right hand.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Source: CNS


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