Virgin River star Callum Kerr has spoken out after his mom and stepfather were found dead in their home.
On February 6, the bodies of Kerr’s mother, Dawn Searle, and her husband, Andrew Searle, were discovered at their residence in Les Pesquies, south of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, France.
According to post-mortem examinations obtained by the BBC, Dawn, 56, suffered "multiple blows to the head with a blunt and sharp-edged object," while Andrew, 62, appeared to have died by suicide.
However, officials in the city of Rodez, who are leading the investigation, have stated that the case remains open, and the exact circumstances surrounding their deaths are still unclear.
"The investigation is ongoing," prosecutors said in a statement to the publication, adding: "Particularly to determine whether the tragedy resulted from a domestic crime followed by suicide or involved a third party."
According to The Scotsman, Andrew was a retired fraud examiner, while Dawn formerly was a project manager. The couple moved to France from Scotland.
Authorities confirmed that the mom was found partially undressed and outside the home with a severe head wound, while Andrew was discovered inside with no visible defensive wounds.
Adding to the mystery, investigators disclosed that a box of jewelry was found nearby - but no weapon or object capable of causing the injuries has been recovered.
Public prosecutor Nicolas Rigot-Muller told Sky News that the couple, who had been married for just over a year, both "died of violent deaths".
The mayor of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, Jean-Sebastien Orcibal, also said the deaths were "something criminal, a homicide very clearly," per the outlet.
As law enforcement continues their investigation, Kerr - who also starred in Hollyoaks - has spoken out for the first time since the tragedy, sharing a statement on behalf of his family.
"At this time, Callum 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 family wrote.
"No family member is available for media interviews or comments," the message continued. "We kindly request that their privacy be respected during this difficult period. We will provide updates as appropriate. Thank you for your understanding."
A spokesperson for the U.K. Foreign and Commonwealth Office has also released a statement, noting: “We are supporting the family of a British couple who died in France and are liaising with the local authorities.”
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