A statement was released by the family of the 6-year-old Virginia shooter on Thursday, January 19, via their attorney, James Ellenson.

The first grader shot his elementary school teacher in the classroom. 

The statement began by praising the teacher, Abby Zwerner, for her endless commitment to the children. After Zwerner was shot, she was able to lead the children out of the classroom. 

The parents revealed that their son has an “acute disability,” and said that the weapon he brought to school had been secured. They said that the child’s disability requires that his mother or father must always attend school with him and accompany him to all his classes. They admitted that it was the first time they had not accompanied their child to school and they would always regret it. 

Where were the child’s parents on the day teacher Zwerner was shot? How did the child get the gun?

The statement also said that the 9mm Taurus gun was secured and that the family was committed to responsible gun ownership, including keeping firearms away from children.

The statement was released on the same day that the teacher, 25-year-old Zwerner, was released from the hospital.

According to Police Chief Steve Drew, the child’s mother, who had legally purchased the gun, could face some charges. He said that the boy brought the weapon to school in his backpack.

Although the school had a metal detection system, students were chosen for inspection at random and the boy’s gun was not detected.

However, information has been released that a child saw the boy’s gun during recess, and a teacher warned an administrator that the child might have a gun but, according to Zwerner’s lawyer, the administrator dismissed the warning.

The family said they were cooperating with local and federal law enforcement. The parents have not been charged and the investigation is ongoing.