Connecticut Lanza Family Statement

NEWTOWN, CT. - (CNN) -- Relatives of the Connecticut school gunman share the nation's grief and struggles "to comprehend the tremendous loss that we all share," according to a statement from James Champion, a police officer and an uncle to alleged gunman Adam Lanza.

Champion is also the brother to Nancy Lanza, the gunman's mother.

"On behalf of Nancy's mother and siblings, we reach out to the community of Newtown and express our heartfelt sorrow for the loss of innocence that has affected so many," the statement said, which was read by Rockingham County, New Hampshire, Sheriff Michael Downing.