Idaho Police Shoot and Kill 17-Year-Old Boy with Autism

Incident Overview

• 📌 A 17-year-old boy, identified as Victor Perez, has reportedly died after being shot by Pocatello police officers in Idaho.
• 💔 Perez was taken off life support after being declared brain dead, following the incident in his grandfather's backyard.

Circumstances of the Encounter

• ⚠️ Witnesses reported that Perez appeared intoxicated and was wielding a knife when approached by police.
• 🔪 A neighbor called the police after witnessing the teen with the knife.
• ⚡ Officers opened fire when Perez allegedly charged at them with the knife, shooting him nine times.

Victim's Background and Family Concerns

• 🧠 Perez's aunt stated that the teen had autism, cerebral palsy, and intellectual disabilities.
• 🗣️ The family is now warning others to be cautious with children who have autism, suggesting that not all officers are equipped to handle individuals in a mental crisis.

Police Response and Investigation

• 🚨 The Pocatello police chief stated that officers must make split-second decisions to assess immediate threats to themselves and others.
• 🔍 Investigations into the shooting are being conducted by both an independent task force and internally.
• 🚫 The officers involved in the incident have been placed on paid administrative leave.