It's been just under a week since pilot Clayton Osbon had a mid-air freakout and tried to take down a JetBlue flight. Today his wife issued the first public statement from the Osbon family, thanking the media for respecting their privacy but offering little explanation as to what caused Osbon's dramatic outburst.

At this time, we ask that the media respect our wishes for privacy. We understand the public's interest in speaking with Clayton and family members, but we respectfully decline all interview requests and will not be making further statements.

It is our belief, as Clayton's family, that while he was clearly distressed, he was not intentionally violent toward anyone. We know you were placed in an awful situation and we appreciate your ability to respond professionally.

Regardless of Osbon's intent, his meltdown caused a serious safety risk for the flight — he had to be physically restrained by the co-pilot and passengers.

[Image via AP]