LAS VEGAS — A man accused of a deadly shooting that killed two homeless people and injured three others has admitted to his crime.
Cristobal Omar Perez, 32, pleaded guilty on Monday to two counts of first-degree murder. His trial was set to begin the next day, but he chose to take responsibility for his actions instead. Perez is expected to receive a prison sentence of 40 years to life when he is officially sentenced on April 8.
Prosecutors revealed that one of the surviving victims is in critical condition. If this person does not survive, Perez could face additional charges and a harsher punishment.
Details of the Shooting
The tragic shooting took place on December 1, 2023, near a freeway overpass in the northeastern part of Las Vegas. According to police, a gunman was dropped off by a black SUV and fired 14 shots at a group of homeless people. After the attack, the shooter was picked up by the same car and driven away. Authorities believed from the start that this act of violence was planned.
Motive Behind the Attack
According to police reports, Perez claimed he acted to “protect his family.” His sister-in-law had told him that someone tried to break into her home. Later, she saw a man at a gas station near a homeless camp and believed he was the person who attempted the break-in. Perez then decided to confront the man, leading to the deadly shooting.
Investigators said Perez arranged for his girlfriend, Kylee Au Young, to wait nearby in a getaway car. She is also facing charges, including two counts of open murder and conspiracy to commit murder. Her case is still ongoing.
Legal Consequences
Perez’s defense attorney, Frank Kocka, said his client chose to take responsibility for his actions. As part of a plea deal, some of the other charges against him were dropped.
This case has drawn attention to the dangers faced by homeless individuals and the need for justice for vulnerable communities. The sentencing hearing in April will determine Perez’s final punishment, and the legal proceedings against his girlfriend will continue separately.
