What's happened
Victor Perez, a 17-year-old with cerebral palsy, remains in critical condition after being shot nine times by police in Pocatello, Idaho, during a reported domestic disturbance. Eyewitness accounts raise concerns about the police's rapid use of force, prompting community outrage and calls for accountability.
What's behind the headline?
Police Response and Community Impact
- The rapid escalation of force by police in this incident highlights ongoing concerns about law enforcement's approach to mental health crises.
- Eyewitness Brad Andres described the police as acting like a 'death squad,' suggesting a lack of communication and de-escalation efforts.
- The community's reaction, including protests outside the police department, indicates a growing distrust in law enforcement's ability to handle such situations appropriately.
- This incident is part of a broader pattern of police violence against vulnerable individuals, particularly those with mental health issues or disabilities.
- The outcome of this case could influence future police training and policies regarding mental health crisis intervention, emphasizing the need for reform in how officers engage with individuals in distress.
What the papers say
The Independent reported that Victor Perez's family expressed outrage over the police's immediate use of lethal force, with his aunt stating, 'We don't know if he's going to wake up.' AP News echoed this sentiment, highlighting the community's demand for accountability and questioning the police's decision-making process during the incident. The NY Post noted that the shooting has sparked protests, with community members criticizing the police for their response to a minor experiencing a mental health episode. These contrasting perspectives illustrate the tension between law enforcement practices and community expectations for safety and support.
How we got here
The incident occurred on April 6, 2025, when police responded to a disturbance involving Perez, who was reportedly intoxicated and wielding a knife. Eyewitness videos show police arriving and quickly opening fire, raising questions about their approach to de-escalation.
Go deeper
- What led to the police being called?
- How is the community responding to the shooting?
- What are the implications for police training and policy?
Common question
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What happened during the police shooting in Pocatello?
On April 5, 2025, a police shooting in Pocatello, Idaho, left a 17-year-old boy in critical condition. The incident has sparked widespread community concern and raised important questions about police use of force, especially in situations involving mental health crises. Below, we explore the details of the incident, community reactions, and the broader implications for police response to mental health issues.
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What Happened in the Police Shooting of Victor Perez?
The police shooting of 17-year-old Victor Perez in Pocatello, Idaho, has sparked outrage and concern within the community. As he remains in critical condition after being shot nine times, many are questioning the police's response and the broader implications for law enforcement practices. Here are some common questions surrounding this incident.
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What Happened in the Police Shooting of Victor Perez?
The police shooting of 17-year-old Victor Perez in Pocatello, Idaho, has raised significant concerns about police use of force and accountability. As the community reacts to this tragic incident, many are left wondering about the implications for law enforcement practices and potential reforms. Below are some common questions surrounding this event and its aftermath.
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More on these topics
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Idaho is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It borders the state of Montana to the east and northeast, Wyoming to the east, Nevada and Utah to the south, and Washington and Oregon to the west.
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Pocatello is the county seat of and largest city in Bannock County, with a small portion on the Fort Hall Indian Reservation in neighboring Power County, in the southeastern part of the U.S. state of Idaho.
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.