Idaho Police Shoot Autistic Teen, Leg Amputated; Outrage Grows

In a tragic incident in Pocatello, Idaho, police officers shot 17-year-old Victor Perez, who is nonverbal, autistic, and has cerebral palsy, nine times while responding to a report of a domestic disturbance. Witnesses captured video of the encounter, which shows officers opening fire within seconds of arriving on the scene, prompting outrage from Perez's family and the community over the lack of de-escalation efforts. Following the shooting, Perez underwent multiple surgeries, including the amputation of his leg, and remains in critical condition. Eyewitnesses noted that the teenager was not actively threatening others and that the police response seemed excessive. The East Idaho Critical Incident Task Force is investigating the incident, while protests have emerged in response to what many are calling police brutality. The Pocatello Police Department has requested patience from the public as the investigation unfolds.