In a rural southern Ohio, US, 8 family members were shot dead, reportedly while they slept.

Responding to the issue, Pike County Sheriff Charles Reader said, “We have a specific family that's been targeted but I don't think there's been a threat to any other members of the community. I've given the family precautionary measures to make. They know we're available.”

Ohio Attorney General Mike Dewine said that, at 4 crime scenes, the investigators reportedly found 7 adults and a 16 year old dead. Among the dead victims, there was even a mother, while her 4-day child laying beside.

Along with that child, even a 6-month-old and a 3-year-old, too survived the killings, Reader said.

He didn't name a suspect or give a motive, but said all the victims are members of the Rhoden family.

“We're advising family members to be very careful and take particular caution.” This is a matter of public safety, especially for the Rhoden family.”

Getting deeper into the case, Dewine further said, “It would appear all of them were shot in the head. It would appear it occurred at night. The deaths are homicides. Nobody killed themselves.”

“The Rhoden family was targeted and we've talked to the family and expressed our concern. The sheriff's office will work with them for protection.”

Pastor Phil Fulton of Union Hill Church said that, the situation was “very out of character” for the community.

More than down agents from Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation would assist the Pike County Sheriff's Office, in the investigation.

By Phani Ch