Dozens attend funeral services for disabled teen teen shot by Pocatello Police

UPDATE:

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) - On Tuesday, family, friends, and the Pocatello community said a final goodbye to Victor Perez, the disabled teen who died Saturday after being shot by Pocatello Police officers earlier this month.

Nearly 100 people, several wearing shirts reading "Justice for Victor," attended the funeral services for the 17-year-old. Victor's mother told the mourners that when her son was born, they knew he would be a special gift and a joy who would need attention and love.

"His legacy is gonna be...it was all the public services," said Perez. "Everybody need(s) to know and need(s) to learn how to work, not just with the autism (autistic) kids. (But they) need to learn how to work... (with) others mental issues."

The Victor Project

The shooting, which was captured on video by watchful neighbors, has created uproar and online controversy in the Pocatello community and beyond. Multiple protest groups have responded to the incident, many calling for a larger investigation into Pocatello PD and accusing the responding officers of "excessive use of force" and "police brutality."

A new group organized in response to the shooting, dubbed the Victor Project, has organized an additional protest on Friday, April 19, at 3 PM at the Idaho State Capitol. The Victor Project's mission statement says their goal is to be a catalyst for change in law enforcement practices.

"We strive to achieve this by advocating for enhanced and standardized de-escalation training for all law enforcement officers," writes the group. "Through community engagement, legal advocacy, and collaborative partnerships, we aim to foster a culture of understanding, respect, and accountability within police forces, ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of our community. We are committed to creating a future where interactions between law enforcement and individuals, especially those with mental health challenges, are handled with compassion, expertise, and a focus on preserving life."

For more information, click HERE.

The investigation into the April 5th shooting

The shooting is currently under investigation by the Idaho Critical Incident Taskforce, and the four responding officers have been placed on administrative leave.

The Idaho Attorney General's Office has also agreed to review their investigative findings regarding the officer-involved shooting at the request of Bannock County Prosecuting Attorney Ian Johnson.

“As with all such matters, the Office of the Attorney General will conduct a thorough and impartial review once the Eastern Idaho Critical Incident Taskforce completes its investigation,” said Attorney General Labrador. “Given the seriousness of the matter and the ongoing investigation, our office will not be making further public comment at this time.”

For more information, click HERE.

According to Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad, the city will be releasing the body camera footage of the four responding officers. For Mayor Blad's full address, click HERE.

Local News 8 will continue to follow and update this story as the investigation develops.

ORIGINAL:

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) - The family of Victor Perez, the disabled teen shot by Pocatello Police officers, has announced that his funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 15.

Services will begin at 3 PM at the Cornelson Funeral Home at 431 N 15th Ave. Pocatello, Idaho 83201. Victor's family says the funeral is open for all to attend.

The news comes after Victor's family chose to take the 17-year-old off life support, following the heartbreaking news that he was brain dead.

For more information, click HERE.