SYDNEY, Aug. 21 (Xinhua) -- People around Australia have offered their condolences to the family of a young Australian boy who was killed in the recent terror attacks in Spain.
Seven-year-old Julian Cadman was exploring the tourist hotspot of Las Ramblas in Barcelona with his mother, Jumarie Cadman, when a terrorist drove a van down the famous boulevard.
Fourteen people are now confirmed dead, and hundreds were injured during the attacks which took place in Barcelona and the nearby town of Cambrils.
Spanish authorities said the boy, who is an Australian and British dual nation, was identified through DNA, ending days of uncertainty over his fate.
In a statement released on Monday, the family described the young boy as "energetic, funny and cheeky," and asked for privacy while they grieve the loss of their beloved son.
"Julian was a much loved and adored member of our family. We are so blessed to have had him in our lives and will remember his smiles and hold his memory dear to our hearts," the Cadman family said.
"We would like to thank all those who helped us in searching for Julian -- your kindness was incredible during a difficult time. We also acknowledge we are not the only family to be affected by the events, our prayers and thoughts are with all the people affected."
Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said Monday that her thoughts and condolences were with the family and loved ones of the young victim.
In a statement, she said she was deeply saddened to confirm the tragic news.
"We remain in close contact with the family, who has requested privacy at this difficult and harrowing time, and we ask the media to respect their request," Bishop said.
"The Australian government will continue to provide consular assistance to those caught up in the attacks and to their loved ones."
Monday will no doubt be a difficult and upsetting day for Cadman's peers at St Bernadette's Catholic Primary School in Sydney's west. The head of the Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta, Greg Whitby, paid tribute to the student, and said the school would always remember the "delightful little boy."
"Julian was curious and energetic, with a kind and generous heart. He was much loved by his teachers and fellow students," Whitby said.
"The school community is feeling his loss deeply."
Julian's father Andrew Cadman flew to Barcelona, with the intent of joining the search for his son. But tragically, only hours after he touched down, Spanish police confirmed the boy's death.
His mother remains in hospital with both her legs broken.
