The community surrounding Sandy Hook Elementary School is struggling to come to terms with the tragic shooting of 20 primary school children.

The victims of Friday's  shooting have now all been identified.

Six-year-old Emilie Parker was among 12 girls and eight boys who lost their lives.

Her father, Robbie, says the family are struggling with an incomprehensible loss.

"I don't, I don't know, I don't know how to get through something like this. My wife and I don't understand how to process all of this and how to get our lives going.

"She was just the type of person that could just light up a room. She always had something kind to say about anybody and her love and the strength that she gave us and the example that she showed us is remarkable. She is an incredible person and I'm so blessed to be her dad."

Law enforcement officials have identified 20-year-old Adam Lanza as the gunman.

A police cordon is in place around the area where he killed his mother Nancy, before heading to the school where he forced his way in.

In total, 28 people - including the gunman - lost their lives, making it one of the worst shootings in U.S. history.