The ‘Virgin River’ star shared a family statement on his Instagram on Saturday, Feb. 8

Scottish actor Callum Kerr is speaking out after the brutal slayings of his mother and stepfather.

Callum, 30, shared a statement, which speaks for several members of the couple’s family, on Instagram on Saturday, Feb. 8.

“At this time, Callum Kerr and Amanda Kerr are grieving the loss of their mother, Dawn Searle (née Smith, Kerr), while Tom Searle and Ella Searle are mourning the loss of their father, Andrew Searle,” the statement said. “No family member is available for media interviews or comments. We kindly request that their privacy be respected during this difficult period.”

They added: “We will provide updates where appropriate. Thank you for your understanding.”

On Friday, Feb. 7, BBC reported that British couple Andrew and Dawn Searle had been found dead in their home in France the previous day. Authorities were called to the scene after the couple didn’t show up for a scheduled dog walk with a neighbor, per the outlet.

Villefranche-de-Rouergue Mayor Jean-Sébastien Orcibal told a French television station that the couple’s death was a homicide, per BBC.

While speaking to The Telegraph, Orcibal noted that the couple “had a very rich social life.”

“They were very kind and courteous,” he added.

Neighbors further told the outlet that Dawn was found naked outside her home and had sustained head injuries. They also said that pieces of her jewelry were strewn around her body.