Hae Min Lee's Family Releases Statement For The First Time Since 'Serial'

A new hearing began Wednesday for "Serial" star Adnan Syed in Baltimore Circuit Court.

Syed's high school friend, Asia McClain, took the stand to testify his innocence. She presented evidence previously excluded from his first trial, as was explained on "Serial."

As the most-downloaded podcast of all time, both families of accused murderer Adnan Syed and victim Hae Min Lee received unwarranted attention for their involvement in the case.

Due to the proceedings, Hae Min Lee's family has issued a statement for the first time.

Refinery29 reports the statement goes as follows:

Our family has lived without a heart for over 17 years. And we continue to grieve every day in private. The immediate family members have decided not to attend this hearing. But we are grateful to all the people who are there and will be there to support us and to give Hae a voice. She is the true victim. Although this has made us relive a nightmare we thought was behind us, we thank the State for standing up for us and continuing to seek justice. We believe justice was done when Adnan was convicted in 2000, and we look forward to bringing this chapter to an end so we can celebrate the memory of Hae instead of celebrating the man who killed her. We ask that you keep Hae in your thoughts and prayers.

This heartbreaking message serves as a reminder that behind the riveting podcast exists a real family grieving the tragic loss of their loved one.

Independent of what may ultimately traspire for Syed, Hae Min Lee deserves a voice amid the fanfare.

Citations: Hae Min Lee's Family Breaks Silence For The First Time (Refinery29)