The family of Victor Perez, a 17-year-old with disabilities who was shot multiple times by police in Pocatello, Idaho, intends to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the city. Perez, who suffered from cerebral palsy and was non-verbal, was shot shortly after officers arrived on the scene, resulting in severe brain damage and his eventual death after being taken off life support. The family’s claim alleges that the officers acted negligently and used excessive force, stating that they fired nine shots without attempting any de-escalation tactics.
Perez’s family expressed their shock at the police’s response during what they described as a miscommunication stemming from an agitated moment at a family barbecue. They aim to hold the city, the police chief, and the involved officers accountable, emphasizing that no warnings were given before the shooting. The police department has placed the four officers on administrative leave, while an investigation by the East Idaho Critical Incident Task Force is ongoing. The family’s attorney argues that it is clear the officers failed to assess the situation adequately, demanding accountability for the tragic outcome.
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