“We are devastated by this shocking event,” the statement read.
“We are stunned and still trying to understand how this could happen.
“We respectfully ask that the community refrain from speculating on the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.
“We thank the community for their support and ask that our privacy is respected as we grieve.”
Police were called to Osmington early on Friday morning.
At the scene they found the bodies of seven people. Katrina Miles, 35, and her four children Taye, 13, Rylan, 12, Ayre, 10, and Kayden Cockman, 8, were among the victims, along with Peter Miles' and wife Cynda.
West Australian Police Commissioner Chris Dawson would not confirm reports that 61-year-old Peter Miles was the shooter, saying the investigation would take several days.
This article originally appeared on New Idea.
