'Disgusting' San Francisco husband 'gunned down whole family including son' while neighbors mistook it for fireworks

A father stands accused of a horrific shooting spree that claimed the lives of his family members - among them, his young six-year-old son - with neighbors claiming they had initially mistaken the sounds for celebratory fireworks . He is soon to face court at the end of this month.

Family members of the victims got their first glimpse of the accused, Shane Killian , in court since the tragic incidents occurred in July.

Donning a special vest to prevent self-harm, 54-year-old Killian made his presence known before Judge Elena Condes at the Alameda County Superior Court. This marked his second appearance in court following the allegations that he fatally shot his wife, her parents, and their two little ones in their oceanside residence in Alameda about ten days earlier.

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"It was really difficult. It was our first - my first time here. I felt very disgusted being on the other side and seeing him with no face expression. Nothing. I don't know how someone can just stand there and not be sad about something like this," voiced Karen Diaz, a niece of one of the victims.

Represented by the Alameda County Public Defender's Office, Killian had his lawyer push for the adjournment of his arraignment for a plea.

Judge Condes granted this request and has set a new court date for Killian, which is now scheduled for August 30.

Neighbours voiced their "complete shock" upon learning that 6 year olds father Shane Killian was the figure being handcuffed, rather than an unknown intruder attacking their community.

Mom Diane was left in utter disbelief, unable to understand how such a wicked crime could occur and imagining the terror and bewilderment her neighbors went through that grim evening. She expressed to the press: "Unbelievable. Imagine what they must be thinking. Why is, what's happening to their mom? Why is their dad trying to hurt me?"

Chief Nishant Joshi said at the time of the shooting: "This is a sad and tragic incident," proceeding to declare: "And I'll say this, these are the actions of a coward."

In honor of the slain family, an emotional candlelight tribute was organized on an Alameda beach, where bereaved friends and family congregated. The gathering saw numerous attendees including six-year-old Williams baseball coach, Ray, who brought flowers, candles, heartfelt notes, and keepsakes to show respect.

Coach Ray left a poignant gift in memory of his young player.

At the vigil, Coach Ray laid down William's bat and ball from his last baseball match before his tragic demise. Upon placing these cherished items, Coach Ray shared his thoughts: "Just hug your children tonight and give him a big hug. Hug your brother, hug your sister. I lost a sister. I know the feeling everybody in this thing is going through. There's so many people. Wow. It just sucks."