Caleb Schwab's family issues statement after water slide death

Authorities did not immediately identify the child who died  at Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Kansas City, but state Rep. Scott Schwab and his wife released a statement saying it was their son Caleb Thomas Schwab. (AP Photo/Nicholas Clayton, file)

KANSAS CITY, KS — In the wake of the death of 10-year-old Caleb Schwab, his family has spoken out about their loss.

"Words will never convey the appreciation Michele, the boys, and I have for all those who expressed their love and support the last week and a half," Schwab's father, Kansas House Rep. Scott Schwab, said Tuesday in a statement. "'Thank You' seems so inadequate to express our appreciation, but it is the only phrase we have. So, from the depths of our hearts, we thank you."

Caleb was killed while riding the Verruckt water-slide at Schlitterbahn Water Park in Kansas City, Kansas, on Aug. 7.

"While we try to step forward into the new normal of life without Caleb in our presence, we find hope with the current investigation into the incident to provide answers and assurances that such tragedy will not strike again," Scott Schwab said.

Schwab family attorney Michael C. Rader said the waterpark is cooperating with an independent investigation in Caleb's death.

"I can say that my firm and I, along with our team of experts, are doing everything in our power to ensure that all questions surrounding the cause of this tragedy are fully answered," Rader said in a statement.