READ: Earl family issues statement following deaths of grandmother, daughter and 5 children

The following is a statement from the Boyd and Gail Earl family. Gail Earl and her daughter Tausha Haight, along with Haight’s five children, were shot and killed in their Enoch, Utah home this week. You can read more about the incident here.

As we try to make sense of this unthinkable tragedy we wish to express our gratitude for the outpouring of prayers, love, kindness and support. It is during times like these that our thoughts are drawn towards a loving and all knowing God who created a beautiful plan of salvation that extends far beyond the mortal loss of those most precious to us. The hurt and humility felt through these experiences only serves to draw us closer to Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and to express our overwhelming gratitude for his infinite, beautiful and powerful atonement. We invite all to seek the peace that can only be found through Him.

We wish to express our sincere appreciation for law enforcement, first responders, medical examiners, ecclesiastical leaders and all who have participated in this process. We hope the honor of your service is reciprocated. Thank you, we love you for the difficult service you render to communities.

We recognize heartbreak extends beyond our family and friends and is shared by neighbors, classmates and community. We express our love and appreciation to the people of Enoch for their warmth and love towards this beautiful family. We know that some may struggle with this insensible loss. It is our hope that any who need support, find the strength to reach out for appropriate help.

We would caution media outlets and the public at large about using our family’s story for any advocacy of political agendas. Protective arms were purposely removed from the home prior to the incident because all adults were properly trained to protect human life. This is the type of loss that will continue to occur in families, communities and this nation when protective arms are no longer accessible. It is our desire that the media turn their attention to the weightier matters surrounding this event. In place of political advocacy, we would encourage reporting about the value of all human life, the great works of God that can render a forgiving heart, how religion can heal and enlarge our capacity for love, and a return to foundational principles of peace within our nation. The reality is this tragedy serves as a call to the memory of God, religion, freedom, peace, and family and the efforts that are required to maintain those freedoms.

Details of funeral plans will be released as they are finalized. We ask for patience, understanding and respect of privacy. A GoFundMe account has been started for those who wish to assist with funeral arrangements and restoration efforts.

Warmly,

Boyd and Gail Earl Family