A tragic incident in Idaho has left a family grieving after a 17-year-old autistic teenager with cerebral palsy was fatally shot by police officers.
Victor Perez, who had been in a coma since the April 5 shooting, passed away after being removed from life support on Saturday, his family confirmed.
Teen’s Injuries and Family’s Heartbreaking Loss
Victor Perez, described by his family as nonverbal and intellectually disabled, was reportedly in critical condition after being shot multiple times by officers.
Doctors had to remove nine bullets from his body, and they also amputated his left leg. Despite these efforts, his condition worsened, and tests on Friday showed no brain activity.
His aunt, Ana Vazquez, shared her devastation with the media, saying, “Those police broke our family.
There is no way to explain the pain that we are feeling right now.”
The Chain of Events Leading to the Shooting
The incident began when police responded to a 911 call about a man chasing someone with a knife in a yard.
However, it was later revealed that Perez, who had difficulty walking due to his disabilities, was not intoxicated as the caller had suggested.
Perez’s family members had been attempting to take the kitchen knife from him, but they were unable to prevent the confrontation with police.
A video taken by a neighbor showed Perez lying in the yard after falling, with officers arriving and immediately demanding he drop the knife.
Within just 12 seconds of getting out of their patrol cars, the officers opened fire.
Perez, still holding the knife, attempted to stand and move toward the officers, leading to the officers firing repeatedly.
Outrage and Calls for Accountability
The shooting, which was captured on video, has sparked outrage among the community, Perez’s family, and social media users.
Many are questioning why the officers resorted to lethal force so quickly without attempting to de-escalate the situation or use non-lethal methods.
A neighbor, Brad Andres, criticized the officers for their approach, saying, “They ran up with their guns drawn, they triggered a mentally disabled person to react, and when he reacted… they shot him.”
Andres compared the officers’ actions to those of a “death squad,” noting that even after Perez was shot and down on the ground, they continued firing at him.
Investigation and Potential Consequences for Officers
The officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave, and an independent investigation is underway by the Eastern Idaho Critical Incident Team.
Bannock County Prosecutor Ian Johnson stated that once the investigation is complete, a report will be reviewed by an agency outside of Bannock County to ensure an unbiased assessment.
Remembering Victor Perez
Victor’s family fondly remembered his simple joys, including watching professional wrestling, taking walks while holding his mother’s hand, and showing affection for the color blue.
His aunt reflected on his sweet nature, saying, “I’m going to miss him when he used to get in his weird moods, and I used to put him to bed.”
Despite the tragic end to his life, the memories of his gentle spirit will live on in those who loved him.