A community in Pocatello, Idaho is reeling after 17-year-old Victor Perez, a teen with cerebral palsy and limited English skills, was shot nine times by police in his own yard.
The incident, which was caught on video and widely shared online, has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns over how police handle situations involving individuals with disabilities.
What Happened?
On Saturday, Pocatello Police were called to the Perez family’s home following a domestic disturbance involving two men and a woman. Officers were told one of the males was intoxicated and armed with a knife.
By the time officers arrived, Perez was in the front yard holding a knife, separated from police by a steel fence. Eyewitness video shows police ordering him to drop the knife. Moments later, Perez struggled to stand up and began moving in their direction. Officers then opened fire, shooting him nine times in the back.
Family Speaks Out
Victor’s aunt, Ana Vazquez, spoke to local media, saying:
“He has the brain of a 5-year-old. He is disabled. He can hardly walk. People around here, they can tell you that.”
She said the family usually knows how to calm him down and didn’t believe he posed a real threat.
His family confirmed that Perez underwent three surgeries, and as a result of the injuries, his left leg had to be amputated. He remains in critical condition at Portneuf Regional Medical Center.
Police Statement
Pocatello Police Chief Roger Schei defended the officers’ actions in a news conference, showing the media a video of the incident and the knife Perez was allegedly holding.
“He did not comply — instead he stood up and advanced towards the officers while still armed,” Schei said.
He explained that the officers acted to protect themselves and others nearby, calling it a “rapidly evolving situation”. Police say officers gave first aid until medical help arrived.
Eyewitnesses Disagree
Brad Andres, who filmed the video, said he believed the police overreacted.
“He wasn’t chasing anyone. Everyone could’ve moved away safely. This didn’t need to end in gunfire,” Andres told local station KIFI.
Community Protests
In response to the shooting, local residents protested outside the Pocatello Police Department on Sunday, calling for accountability and more compassionate handling of mental health and disability cases.