As they continue to grieve the devastating loss of their child, the family of murder victim Mercedez Layne has expressed heartfelt gratitude to members of the public and police officers who have stood by them throughout their ordeal.

The statement from the family said the outpouring of support from friends, neighbours, strangers and law enforcement personnel has provided comfort during one of the most difficult periods of their lives.

The statement from the family read, "As we continue to mourn the heartbreaking loss of our beloved Mercedez Layne, we feel it is important to publicly acknowledge and thank the many people who stood with us during the darkest hours of our lives.