Mall killer 'had mental health issues and was known to cops'

Knifeman's family: Cauchi rampage was horrific

- ANDY LINES

SYDNEY knife killer Joel Cauchi had suffered mental health issues since he was a teenager, his family said yesterday.

The 40-year-old was known to police before stabbing six people to death in a shopping mall rampage.

It also emerged Cauchi had tried to join gun clubs, but was not involved with any terror group.

As more details came to light about his victims, including a heroic security guard who tried to stop him, his family even asked after Inspector Amy Scott who shot the gunman dead.

They said: "We are absolutely devastated by the traumatic events that occurred in Sydney.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims and those still undergoing treatment.

"Joel's actions were horrific, and we are still trying to comprehend what happened.

"He has battled with mental health issues since he was a teenager. We have no issues with the police officer who shot our son as she was only doing her job to protect others, and we hope she is coping all right."