John Travolta and Kelly Preston have taken time out from mourning the tragic death of their 16-year-old son, Jett Travolta, to issue their first statement on their loss.

Here's what they posted on his official site ...

"We would like to extend our deepest and most heartfelt thanks to everyone who has sent their love and condolence. Jett was the most wonderful son that two parents could ever ask for and lit up the lives of everyone he encountered.'

"We are heartbroken that our time with him was so brief. We will cherish the time that we had with him for the rest of our lives."

"We have received many messages of condolence from around the world and we want to thank everyone for their prayers and support. It has meant so much to us. It is a beautiful reminder of the inherent goodness in the human spirit."

An autopsy on Jett Travolta is scheduled for today in the Bahamas, and the family is hoping to have the body transported back to Florida for a funeral later this week.