Eliza Fletcher’s family thanked law enforcement and asked for privacy in a statement released Tuesday after Memphis police announced that remains found the night before were those of the missing kindergarten teacher and mom.

The family said little during the four day hunt for Fletcher, 34, who was violently abducted while out on a run early Friday morning, appearing on Sunday in short video pleading for help finding the missing woman, as CrimeOnline previously reported. Tuesday’s statement was no less brief, but infinitely more heartbroken:

“We are heartbroken and devastated by this senseless loss. Liza was a such a joy to so many – her family, friends, colleagues, students, parents, members of her Second Presbyterian Church congregation, and everyone who knew her. 

“Now it’s time to remember and celebrate how special she was and to support those who cared so much for her. We appreciate all the expressions of love and concern we have received.  We are grateful beyond measure to local, state and federal law enforcement for their tireless efforts to find Liza and to bring justice to the person responsible for this horrible crime.  

We hope that everyone, including media representatives, understand the need for the family to grieve in privacy without outside intrusion during this painful time.”

The Fletchers’ church, Second Presbyterian, and St Mary’s Episcopal School, where Liza Fletcher taught, were also grieving.

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[Featured image: Ritchie and Liza Fletcher/Facebook]