Idaho Police Shoot Autistic Teen Holding Knife: Investigation Underway

Officer-Involved Shooting of Victor Perez

• 📌 A 17-year-old named Victor Perez, who is autistic and has cerebral palsy, was shot nine times by Pocatello Police Department officers.
• ⚠️ The incident occurred after police received a call about an intoxicated individual holding a knife outside a home.
• 💔 Perez is currently in the hospital in a coma, and his family reports that his left leg had to be amputated due to his injuries.

Family's Account and Community Reaction

• 💬 Perez's family states he is nonverbal, autistic, and was not threatening anyone, with their only attempt being to get the knife out of his hand.
• 🗣️ The family is questioning the use of nine bullets, with an aunt stating that if shooting was necessary, only one officer should have fired.
• 📢 The community is expressing concern and demanding accountability, holding protests and fundraisers.

Police Response and Investigation

• 🚔 Police stated they understand the concern and are aware of the viral video, but emphasize that a full picture requires reviewing all facts and evidence.
• ⏱️ The family and community are questioning why non-lethal force options like bean bag rounds or tasers were not used, noting officers opened fire just 12 seconds after arriving.
• ❓ The investigation is in its early stages, with requests for interviews with the police chief pending.
• 🌐 There are also questions about a potential language barrier between officers and Perez's relatives who were present.