The aunt of an Idaho teenager who was shot nine times by police believes that the officers acted too quickly and should have taken more time to assess the situation before firing their weapons. Victor Perez, who is 17 years old and has autism and cerebral palsy, remains in critical condition at a hospital and has not regained consciousness since the shooting in Pocatello on Saturday. Ana Vazquez, the teenager’s aunt, explained that Perez had grabbed a knife during a family barbecue, and his sister was trying to take it away from him when a neighbor called the police for assistance. Unfortunately, the neighbor was unaware of Perez’s medical conditions and the fact that he was experiencing a mental health crisis.
The shooting, which was recorded on video, has led to protests in the city. Vazquez criticized the officers for not inquiring about the situation upon arrival and for quickly resorting to lethal force. Mayor Brian Blad expressed his condolences to the Perez family and assured that a thorough investigation is underway. The four officers involved have been placed on administrative leave, as per standard police procedure.
Police Chief Roger Schei stated that the officers repeatedly instructed Perez to drop the knife, but he advanced towards them with the weapon. According to a 911 call, it was reported that someone was attempting to stab another person with a knife. The family mentioned that they had concealed the knife, but Perez managed to find it. The incident was captured on video by a witness, showing the officers commanding Perez to drop the knife before shots were fired.
Perez’s family, originally from Puerto Rico, expressed their devastation over the situation and the uncertainty of his recovery. Despite the challenges, they have been touched by the support received from the Idaho community.
