The family of famed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife Michelle have publicly addressed their parents’ deaths for the first time since his brother Nick Reiner was charged with first-degree murder. The couple were found dead at their Los Angeles home on December 14, having both suffered multiple blunt force injuries, according to the county medical examiner. His son, Nick Renner, was taken into custody the same evening and charged with murder on December 16.

according to tmzThe late couple’s children, Jake and Romy Renner, released a statement describing their emotional reaction to the tragedy. He said they were experiencing “unimaginable pain” and described the deaths as a “terrible and devastating loss.” The siblings said: “They weren’t just our parents; they were our best friends.”

The statement continued: “We are grateful for the condolences, kindness and support we have received not only from family and friends but from people from all walks of life.” He also requested privacy and urged that his parents “be remembered for their incredible lives and the love they gave.”

Nick Renner, 32, appeared in court for the first time on December 17 wearing a prison-issued suicide-prevention smock. His arraignment was postponed until January 7, at which point he is expected to enter a plea. During the hearing, when asked by Judge Theresa McGonigal if he understood his rights, he replied “Yes, your Honor.”

Family representatives did not immediately respond to media requests for comment. Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell called the case “heartbreaking and extremely personal, not only for the Renner family and their loved ones, but for the entire city.”

Nick’s lawyer Alan Jackson told reporters there were “complex and serious issues” in the case. He urged the public and the media to “allow the system to move forward the way it is designed to move forward,” adding: “Not with haste in making decisions, not with jumping to conclusions, but with restraint and dignity.”

Legal experts suggest that postponing the arraignment could allow time for a psychiatric evaluation, as criminal defense attorney Seth Zuckerman explained: “Psychiatric evaluations are usually done before arraignment to see if he’s fit to stand trial.” Until his next hearing, Nick Renner remains in custody at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility in Los Angeles.

Romy Renner reportedly discovered her parents’ bodies and informed police that her brother was “dangerous”. Police arrested Nick Renner hours later without incident. Prosecutors have not yet decided whether to pursue the death penalty, but if convicted, Nick could face life in prison.