Mollie Tibbetts' Family Releases First Statement Since News of Death: 'Our Hearts are Broken'
Hearts across the nation broke this week as news of Mollie Tibbets’ body being found broke early Tuesday morning.
The 20-year-old University of Iowa student went missing on July 18, 2018, while on her nightly jog.
The community and the rest of the nation rallied around the family as investigators spent the next five weeks searching for her.
Mollie’s family continued to hold on to hope that she was still alive even as the search seemed to drag on. They just wanted to hug their caring, sweet girl again and were praying for her safe return.
She was described as someone who loved quietly and deeply. Her dad, Rob Tibbetts, said that she had an uncanny ability to make people feel loved and cared for on a personal level.
Early Tuesday morning, the search came to a tragic end when they found a body that they believe to be Mollie’s.
Investigators later arrested a 24-year-old man they believe committed the horrible crime against her.
The family has just released their first statement on their loss.
“Our hearts are broken,” the family said in a statement sent to the Iowa Department of Public Safety.
“On behalf of Mollie’s entire family, we thank all of those from around the world who have sent their thoughts and prayers for our girl,” they continued.
“We know that many of you will join us as we continue to carry Mollie in our hearts forever.”
They then asked for privacy as they process and grieve together. It has already been such an exhausting month for them.
The news came as a shock, but now they can rest in the fact that Mollie, who had been public about her strong faith, is with Jesus.
The family also thanked those that helped spread Mollie’s story as investigators were searching.
“Again, thank you for the outpouring of love and support that has been shared in Mollie’s name. We remain forever grateful.”
Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to the family.
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