The shooting occurred around noon on April 13, according to multiple reports. Police responded to reports of an active shooter at the airport. Callan West Perez was shot multiple times in an airport restroom, and his father, Giovanni Perez, 37, shot himself near a ticket counter after exiting the restroom, the police said. The father and son had entered the restroom twice, with the shooting happening during the second time inside.
Giovanni and Callan had been traveling together when their rental car broke down outside Winnemucca, and they were towed to Elko to arrange alternative transport, according to police. Authorities also stated that Giovanni Perez had attempted to keep Callan from his maternal grandparents and his own family.
It is with shattered hearts that we are asking for help for our family during the most unimaginable loss. Our sweet Callan West Perez, only 11 years old, was taken from us at the hands of someone who was supposed to protect him.
A bomb squad was called to process the family's vehicle for explosive devices as a precaution, but no explosives were found, multiple reports indicate. The airport was closed due to the incident and reopened the following day, according to major media. A GoFundMe page has been started to raise money for Callan's funeral and family, with an initial goal of $13,000, and it had raised about $12,000 as of Wednesday morning, multiple reports show. Callan's family wants justice against a system that failed him, as mentioned in the GoFundMe page, according to major media.
Police have not disclosed the specific motive for the shooting, the type of firearm used, or any prior incidents that might have indicated Giovanni Perez was a threat. The current status of the investigation, including findings beyond the initial report, and the specific legal or custody issues involved remain unknown.
Callan was so much more than this tragedy. He was incredibly smart, funny, and kind—wise beyond his years. He had the biggest heart and the sweetest soul. Not to mention a smile that lit up every room he entered. He deserved so much more life, so many more laughs, and a future that was stolen far too soon.