Matthew de Grood's father: 'Just like you, we struggle to understand what happened'
Calgary police Insp. Douglas de Grood, the father of stabbing suspect Matthew de Grood, fought back tears as he spoke about how shocked and devastated he and his wife are.
"We are deeply saddened for what the families and friends of the victims are going through," he said.
"Your lives have been turned upside down. We know words cannot ease your pain and suffering. Please accept our deepest condolences and know you are in our hearts, our thoughts and our prayers."
Matthew de Grood has been charged with five counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of Lawrence Hong, 27, Joshua Hunter, 23, Kaitlin Perras, 23, Zackariah Rathwell, 21, and Jordan Segura, 22.
"Like any parent can tell you, a love for your child is unconditional, and we love Matthew dearly," said de Grood, reading from a prepared statement.
"Our Matthew is a great kid, full of love, kindness and respect for others."
De Grood said he and his wife, Susan, hope to see their son soon.
"Just like you, we struggle to understand what happened," said de Grood.
"We have received an outpouring of support from our extended family, friends and co-workers and even people we've never met. We thank each one of you for your support."
De Grood is a 33-year veteran of the Calgary Police Service who has held leadership positions within the force. He is still on active duty.
At a news conference Wednesday, Calgary police Chief Rick Hanson also spoke of how the event has devastated Matthew de Grood's parents.
"I talked to [Douglas de Grood] just before coming down here. He ... asked that I would pass on — he's heartbroken, as his wife is — and he said, 'Could you please pass on to the families our total and complete sorrow and condolences as to what happened.'" said Hanson.
"They feel so much pain for the families that were impacted by their son."
The de Groods also have an older daughter named Nicole.
