An 11-year-old boy was fatally shot in the restroom of a prominent international airport. Emergency responders swiftly arrived at Elko International Airport in Nevada after receiving reports of an active shooter. The victim, Callan West Perez, sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was urgently transported to the hospital but tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities discovered a deceased man near the airline ticket counter and the young boy in critical condition on April 13. Despite medical efforts, Callan did not survive. Subsequent investigations confirmed the deceased man as Callan’s father, Giovanni Perez. It was revealed that the father and son were traveling together when their car broke down in Winnemucca, Nevada, leading them to the airport for alternative transportation arrangements.
In a poignant message, the grieving family described the boy as exceptionally bright, humorous, and kind-hearted, emphasizing his generous nature and gentle spirit. The family set up a GoFundMe page, seeking assistance during this devastating loss and honoring Callan’s memory.
According to law enforcement, the father and son entered the restroom together, briefly exited, then re-entered before the shooting occurred. The father then fatally shot himself near the ticket counter. Although bomb squad officers inspected the vehicle associated with the pair as a precaution, no explosives were found.
The tragic incident at Elko International Airport caused significant disruptions, resulting in temporary flight suspensions before operations resumed the next day. Callan’s family is currently raising funds for funeral expenses and potential legal actions, seeking justice for the system’s perceived failure. They are appealing for support to give Callan a deserving farewell.
Reports indicated that Giovanni Perez was engaged in a custody dispute with his son’s maternal grandparents, attempting to prevent contact between them and his own family. Elko police disclosed that Perez was grappling with PTSD post his military service.