WASHINGTON (AP) - The parents of Trayvon Martin said charges against George Zimmerman in the fatal shooting their son would start the healing process, but they won't stop fighting until he's convicted.

Martin's mother, Sybrina Fulton, told The Associated Press on Tuesday that right now she and Martin's father "can't get past our son being murdered and no one being arrested." His father, Tracy Martin, said it would be very important to also get a conviction.

Their comments came amid reports that charges would be filed against Zimmerman in the Feb. 26 shooting in Florida. Later Tuesday, the special prosecutor looking into the shooting said in Florida that Zimmerman had turned himself in to authorities and was charged with second-degree murder.

After their interview with the AP, Martin's parents had been awaiting word of charges against Zimmerman in a room at the Washington Convention Center in a group that included their attorneys and the Rev. Al Sharpton.

At one point, Tracy Martin put his arm around Fulton and she leaned into him, resting her head on his chest.

A few minutes later the entire group stood up and exchanged hugs.