Family of Sigourney shooting suspect releases statement

The family of Jeff Krier, the man suspected of killing Keokuk County Sheriff's Deputy Eric Stein, has released the following statement on Monday's events:

"This is a sad and difficult day for two Iowa families as we grieve the loss of our loved ones. On behalf of our family, we want to express our sympathy and extend our prayers to the family of Deputy Eric Stein. Deputy Stein was killed in the line of duty by our brother, Jeff Krier. While we do not understand what lead to this tragic end we do know the loss and grief caused by Jeff's actions is immeasurable.

"Jeff was a loving brother who struggled with mental illness for the past three decades. He was diagnosed as bipolar and had tremendous difficulty managing his illness.  In fact, he was hospitalized in March for seven days. While Jeff's mental illness may have contributed to the tragedy it in no way provides comfort or solace to the many who have been impacted by his actions.

"We will continue to cooperate fully with local and state law enforcement officials. We ask members of the media to respect the privacy of our parents who are both in a local nursing home and are unable to speak.  Funeral Services for Jeff are pending."

More information on Jeff Krier:

Jeffrey Alan Krier, 53, was born and raised in Sigourney.  He graduated Sigourney High School in 1976. He studied aircraft mechanics at Indian Hills Community College in 1986. Jeff was not employed for the last 15 years due to his mental illness. He lived at the family farm with his parents until his mother and father moved into a nursing home in March. He is survived by his parents, Glen and Roselyn; brother, Sam; sister, Debbie; seven nieces, one nephew, several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his sister, Vickie.