Empire State Review Team 
Critical Incident in Pocatello: Police Shooting of Disabled Teen
POCATELLO, Idaho – An incident involving law enforcement escalated dramatically Saturday afternoon in Pocatello, resulting in the hospitalization of a 17-year-old disabled teen, Victor Perez, after he was shot nine times by police. The situation unfolded shortly after officers arrived on the scene, igniting community outrage and calls for accountability.
Details of the Incident
Victor Perez, who is nonverbal, autistic, and has cerebral palsy, was reportedly involved in a confrontation in his family’s yard while wielding a kitchen knife. According to family member Ana Vazquez, Perez has a cognitive ability akin to that of a young child and struggles with mobility due to his disabilities. The incident took place at around 5:25 PM, after a neighbor witnessed the disturbance and contacted the police.
The 911 call specified that the individual appeared intoxicated and was chasing two people in the yard. However, Vazquez clarified that due to his condition, Perez’s unsteady movement might have created such an impression, rather than any actual aggressive behavior.
Police Response
When police arrived, they observed Perez still on the ground. Despite a barrier—a chain-link fence—separating them, they drew their weapons after ordering him to drop the knife. Approximately 12 seconds after their arrival, officers opened fire on Perez as he attempted to rise and move towards them.
Family members have stated that they had never previously contacted law enforcement regarding Perez, and it remains unclear whether officers were informed of his disabilities or that this was his first encounter with the police.
Controversy and Community Reaction
The use of force in this situation has drawn severe criticism. A witness, Brad Andres, described the police’s response as extreme, likening their behavior to that of a “death squad.” He questioned why the officers did not engage in de-escalation tactics or utilize non-lethal measures, emphasizing that there were other ways to handle the situation without resorting to deadly force.
Protests erupted following the shooting, with demonstrators expressing their anger outside the Pocatello Police Department. Vazquez noted the police’s approach, stating that they merely told bystanders to “get back” before opening fire.
Current Condition of Victor Perez
As of Tuesday, Victor remains hospitalized in critical condition after undergoing an amputation of one of his legs. His family is grappling with uncertainty regarding his prognosis, as doctors prepare for potential severe outcomes. There are ongoing tests to assess brain activity, and the family has been advised to prepare for any eventuality.
Investigation and Official Response
The East Idaho Critical Incident Task Force and the Pocatello Police Department are currently investigating the shooting. Pocatello Police Chief Roger Schei addressed the community in a video statement, acknowledging the public’s concerns and assuring that a comprehensive review of the incident would take place. He indicated that an incomplete view of the events is presented in circulating video footage, underscoring the necessity for a thorough report on the situation.
Support for the Victim
A GoFundMe page has been established to assist Perez’s family with medical expenses and other related costs during this overwhelming time. Community members are being encouraged to come together positively in response to the tragic event and support efforts that could prevent future occurrences of similar incidents.
As the investigation unfolds, many in the community remain hopeful for change and better understanding of how to manage incidents involving vulnerable populations, such as individuals with disabilities.
