An 11-year-old boy was fatally shot in the restroom of a major international airport. Emergency responders quickly arrived at Elko International Airport in Nevada following reports of an active shooter. The victim, Callan West Perez, sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was taken to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities discovered a deceased man near the airline ticket counter and the young boy struggling for his life nearby on April 13. Despite medical efforts, Callan could not be saved. The man was later identified as Callan’s father, Giovanni Perez. Investigators revealed that the pair had encountered car trouble in Winnemucca, Nevada, and were towed to the airport for assistance.
In a heartbreaking message, the devastated family described Callan as intelligent, humorous, and kind-hearted, emphasizing his loving nature. A GoFundMe page was set up to seek support during this tragic loss, highlighting the family’s plea for assistance.
According to officials, the father and son entered the restroom together, briefly left, and then returned before the fatal shooting occurred. The father subsequently exited the restroom and took his own life near the ticket counter. The bomb squad was called to inspect the vehicle associated with the pair as a precaution, but no explosives were found.
The incident at Elko International Airport led to significant flight disruptions before normal operations resumed the next day. Callan’s family is now raising funds for funeral expenses and potential legal actions, seeking justice for their loss. They are determined to honor Callan’s memory and provide him with a proper farewell.
Giovanni Perez was reportedly engaged in a custody battle with his son’s maternal grandparents, attempting to prevent contact between the child and both sides of the family, as per Elko police. The police department also noted his struggles with PTSD following his military service.