In Las Vegas, a man identified in a violent incident that resulted in the deaths of two homeless individuals and injuries to three others has admitted guilt to two counts of first-degree murder. Cristobal Omar Perez, aged 32, gave his plea on Monday, one day before his scheduled court trial, as reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal. He is now facing a potential prison sentence ranging from 40 years to life, with sentencing set for April 8.
Prosecutors highlighted that one of the injured victims remains in critical condition. Should this victim succumb to their injuries, additional charges could be filed against Perez, which might lead to more severe repercussions.
The shooting incident occurred on December 1, 2023, near a freeway overpass in the northeastern region of the city. According to the police, a gunman, discharged 14 rounds randomly at a cluster of homeless individuals before fleeing in a black SUV. Initial investigations suggested that the attack was a premeditated act.
As per information extracted from an arrest report, Perez claimed his actions were motivated by a desire to protect his family, stemming from an event where another person attempted to break into his sister-in-law’s house. She had reportedly seen a man at a gas station close to a homeless encampment who bore resemblance to the potential intruder, prompting Perez to address the individual.
Police revealed that Perez’s girlfriend, Kylee Au Young, was involved, waiting in a nearby location with a getaway car. Her legal situation remains unresolved, with charges against her including two counts of open murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
Defense attorney Frank Kocka stated that Perez has acknowledged his role in the incident, and through a plea deal, additional charges have been dismissed.
