A 17-year-old boy named Victor Perez, a non-verbal autistic individual with cerebral palsy, tragically passed away following a shooting by police in Pocatello, Idaho, which occurred on April 5. After several surgeries and removal from life support, tests revealed no brain activity, leading to his family’s heartbreaking decision on Saturday to cease support.
The incident began when police received a 911 call about an intoxicated man allegedly threatening someone with a knife. However, it was later confirmed that Perez, who was not intoxicated, was simply trying to defend himself while his family attempted to retrieve a large kitchen knife from him. Neighbouring footage showed Perez lying down after losing his balance as officers arrived at the scene.
Upon their arrival, police ordered Perez to drop the knife, but instead, he stood up and moved towards them. Within roughly 12 seconds of exiting their vehicles, the officers opened fire, neglecting to de-escalate the situation despite Perez’s visible difficulties in mobility. The rapid response of the police spurred outrage among Perez’s family and community members, culminating in a planned vigil outside the hospital where he received treatment.
Ana Vazquez, Perez’s aunt, expressed frustration over the officers’ lack of concern for the circumstances and highlighted the unreasonable expectation that Perez could pose a physical threat given his disabilities. The involved officers have been placed on administrative leave while an independent investigation is carried out by the Eastern Idaho Critical Incident Team. Decisions regarding potential charges against the officers will depend on the findings of this investigation, overseen by an external agency.
Pocatello’s Mayor Brian Blad acknowledged the grief caused by this incident, stating that the city was addressing it with the necessary seriousness and thoroughness. As investigations into the shooting are ongoing, city officials have refrained from commenting further to avoid hindering or compromising the inquiry.
This tragic incident has raised significant concerns regarding police protocols and the treatment of individuals with disabilities during crisis situations. The community’s mourning reflects broader discussions about accountability and the imperative need for enhanced training in handling sensitive cases involving vulnerable individuals.