The Department of Children and Families has revealed they were investigating Don Spirit for two weeks before he shot and killed his daughter and six grandchildren last week in Bell.
A DCF spokesperson said someone called the abuse hotline Sept. 1, complaining adults were using drugs in front of the children.
DCF said 28-year-old Sarah Spirit, the children’s mother, told investigators she had tested positive for drugs and was arrested for violating her probation.
After she was released, Sarah told them she and the children went to live with her father Don in Bell.
Officials have confirmed the father and daughter were the focus of several past abuse and neglect investigators.
Don also served time in prison several years ago for possession of firearm by a convicted felon after killing his 8-year-old son in an accidental shooting in Osceola County in 2001.
Meanwhile, no motive for killings has been released. However, officials have said the 51-year-old called 911 last Thursday warning he might hurt himself and others.
Minutes later, investigators said he shot and killed his daughter and six grandchildren before killing himself.
A news conference was scheduled for 10 a.m. Tuesday, but has since been cancelled. Deputies said they will release a written statement around 9 a.m. Tuesday.