This bodycam footage depicts two officers responding to a reported disabled vehicle. Further investigation has revealed the caller to be 19-year-old Alec Perez, who is, in fact, the masked attacker seen here. He exits the vehicle with what appears to be a handgun, which he fires several times at the officers. This prompts Officer Hadzovic, from whose perspective we are seeing this incident, to fire at Perez six times. Viewer discretion is advised.

The twist in this tale is that, of course, the “handgun” Perez wielded was identified as a C02-powered BB gun. While that is probably evident to those of us with the benefit of hindsight, it’s important to note that within the moment, police officers can’t bet their lives on whether a gun is the real deal or not. While the ‘pop’ Perez’ weapon makes is distinctly different than that of a real firearm, the officers are already reacting to him having sprung an ambush and pointed it at them. This whole incident has more questions than answers. Perez knew it was a fake weapon- while a suspect may rob someone with a BB gun and then later get shot by a cop who sees it in play, Perez deliberately engaged police officers with it, knowing it was fake. If it was a “suicide by cop” move, why the mask? Confusing things further, an un-masked female is in the car.

Officer Hadzovic fired six times, and his partner, Batista, three. Perez was hit twice and hospitalized, though he ultimately survived his injuries. He was charged with Reckless Endangerment and Menacing.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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