Steve Stephens
Steve Stephens, who Cleveland Division of Police said was being sought in connection with the killing of an individual, is seen in an undated handout photo released April 16, 2017. Reuters/Cleveland Police

The family of Robert Godwin Sr., the elderly man killed in a video posted to Facebook Sunday, asked his killer to turn himself in. Police named a Cleveland man, Steve Stephens, as the primary suspect in the Sunday murder.

In a series of tweets, Fox News’ Jessica Dill reported Godwin’s family has a message for Stephens. "We forgive you," they said. "Please turn yourself in." Additionally, the family reportedly told Dill that they do not place any blame on Stephens’ ex-girlfriend, adding she shouldn’t feel responsible for his actions.

Stephens, 37, was accused of homicide Sunday in the death of Godwin, a 74-year-old Ohio resident who was reportedly walking home following an Easter celebration with his family. The shooting was posted to Facebook Sunday afternoon around 2 p.m. EDT and the Cleveland Police Department issued an aggravated murder warrant against Stephens Sunday evening. A massive manhunt for Stephens is currently underway.

READ: Who Is Steve Stephens?

Stephens said during the live broadcast that he killed Godwin because of a woman he identified as Joy Lane. According to the New York Daily News, Stephens said, "She's the reason why all of this is about to happen to you."

In a text message to CBS News, Joy Lane confirmed that she and Stephens had been in a relationship and offered her condolences to the family.

"We had been in a relationship for several years. I am sorry that all of this has happened. My heart & prayers goes out to the family members of the victim(s). Steve really is a nice guy... he is generous with everyone he knows. He was kind and loving to me and my children. This is a very difficult time for me and my family Please respect our privacy at this time."

As of Monday, the search for Stephens widened to five states, including New York, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Michigan.

Pennsylvania authorities reportedly told CNN early Monday that a "ping" from Stephens’ cell phone near Erie, Pennsylvania. However, the claim was not corroborated by Erie Police Department, who told CNN Monday afternoon that it had no knowledge of any such signal.

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