The family of murdered student Meredith Kercher have been left stunned after the pair convicted of her killing walked free.

Amanda Knox and Raffele Sollecito were sensationally freed following an appeal against the murder of 21-year-old Coulsdon student was found stabbed to death in her flat in Perugia, Italy.

Miss Knox, 24, is now primed to make millions in TV appearances and book deals as she flew back to her home city of Seattle after the verdict was returned on Monday night.

It means Meredith’s mother Arline, sister Stephanie and brother Lyle, who were all present when the pair was acquitted, are left with questions over what really happened on November 1, 2007.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Stephanie said: “The biggest disappointment is not knowing still. There could be someone or people out there who have done this.”

She said the family were “shocked” when they heard the decision and brother Lyle added they were “still coming to terms” with the reality.

He said: “It is very disappointing as with anyone who loses someone close to them, someone so young and in brutal circumstances. And the worldwide attention has made it difficult.”

Asked if they would forgive Miss Knox and Mr Sollecito, he replied: “You cannot really forgive someone if they have not admitted something. We can only say fair enough and move on.”

The family said it was “hopeful” the truth would come out as they confirmed the Italian prosecutors had looked to take the case to the High Court and appeal the latest ruling.