Texas family shooting victims grew up in Southern California

MENIFEE, Calif. (KABC) -- The family killed in suburban Houston by their former brother-in-law and uncle Wednesday were Southern California natives and had lived in Moreno Valley before moving to Texas a few years ago, according to Joyce and Thomas Stay. Their son, Stephen Stay, was one of the fatal victims.

Texas officials say Ronald Lee Haskell, 33, went to a home in North Harris County Wednesday evening, demanding the whereabouts of his ex-wife. Prosecutors say Haskell posed as a FedEx delivery driver and forced entry into the home, holding the children at gunpoint until their parents came home.

Stephen Stay, 39, and his wife Katie Stay, 33, were killed, along with their two boys, 4-year-old Zachery Thomas and 13-year-old Bryan, and two girls, 7-year-old Rebecca and 9-year-old Emily. Haskell also critically wounded 15-year-old Cassidy Stay, who told police she survived by playing dead after Haskell shot her in the back of the head.

Joyce and Thomas Stay say the victims knew their killer, he was their brother-in-law and uncle, and that they grew up in Southern California together.

"How he changed, I just don't know, you just don't know what triggers that off in people's minds," Thomas Stay said.

Deputies say Cassidy called 911 and tipped off authorities that Haskell was behind the attack and was heading to another home, where deputies say he was planning to shoot more relatives.

Joyce Stay said she spoke to Cassidy on the phone from the hospital Wednesday night.

"I said, 'I'm so sorry Cassidy about everything that's happened, but I'm so thankful you're still here with us'. She said, 'My mom and dad are in a better place.'"

Watch the full interview with the victims' family above.

A memorial fund has been set up for the family. To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/bbh9go.