Parents of gun range killings suspect thank victim

DALLAS (AP) — The parents of the man accused of killing former Navy SEAL Chris Kyle on a Texas gun range are publicly thanking the celebrated sniper for helping their son deal with post-traumatic stress disorder.

The mother of Eddie Ray Routh said Tuesday she and her husband want others with PTSD "to know their struggle is recognized."

In a statement, Jodi Routh also expressed hope that the tragedy will "somehow help in getting care and assistance for those in need."

Eddie Ray Routh is charged with a capital murder count and two murder counts stemming from the killings of Kyle and his friend Chad Littlefield on Feb. 2.

The 25-year-old Routh has been described as a troubled vet who was hospitalized for mental problems.

Kyle wrote the best-selling book "American Sniper."