For the first time, family members of a 9-year-old boy accused of intentionally setting a fire to the family home are speaking out.

Katie Alwood fought back tears as she spoke about her son, Kyle — who was charged with five counts of first-degree murder, killing five people one night in April.

The victims are: Alwood’s other children, Daemeon and Ariel Wall, ages 2 and 1, respectively; her grandmother, Kathryn Murray, 69; her fiancé, Jason Wall, 34; and her niece, Rose Alwood, 2.

Alwood was in the home when the fire broke out when most of the victims were sleeping, but was only able to save herself.

Alwood said her son had been recently diagnosed with a form of schizophrenia, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, and that he is a loving son who deserves a second chance.

Here’s more on the story via CBS News:

According to CBS News, the local prosecutor said he defends his decision to file murder charges, but Kyle is only expected to face probation.

Alwood hopes the judge takes into consideration Kyle’s mental state and the person she says he is. He’ll be in court on Oct. 21.