LAS VEGAS — Homeless shooting: A man accused of a deadly shooting that killed two homeless individuals and injured three others has pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree murder, according to reports.
Cristobal Omar Perez, 32, entered his plea on Monday, just one day before his trial was set to begin. He now faces a prison sentence ranging from 40 years to life, with formal sentencing scheduled for April 8.
Potential for Additional Charges
Prosecutors revealed that a third victim remains in critical condition and may not survive. Should that individual succumb to their injuries, Perez could face additional charges and a harsher sentence.
Details of the December 2023 Shooting
The shooting occurred on December 1, 2023, near a freeway overpass in northeastern Las Vegas. Police reports state that a gunman, dropped off by a black SUV, fired 14 shots indiscriminately at a group of homeless individuals before being picked up by the same vehicle. Investigators initially believed the attack was premeditated.
Motive Behind the Attack
According to the arrest report, Perez acted out of what he believed was a need to “protect his family” after an attempted break-in at his sister-in-law’s home. She reportedly told Perez that she saw a man at a gas station near a homeless encampment who resembled the attempted intruder. Acting on this information, Perez decided to confront the man.
Perez coordinated the attack by having his girlfriend, Kylee Au Young, wait nearby in a getaway car. Her case remains active, and she faces charges of two counts of open murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
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Plea Deal Reduces Charges
Perez’s defense attorney, Frank Kocka, confirmed that the guilty plea was part of a plea agreement, which led to the dismissal of other charges.
“Mr. Perez has taken responsibility for his actions, and the plea deal reflects that acknowledgment,” Kocka stated.
Community Impact and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The shooting sparked outrage within the community, highlighting the vulnerability of Las Vegas’s homeless population. Advocacy groups have since called for increased protections for those living on the streets.
Meanwhile, legal proceedings against Kylee Au Young are ongoing, and prosecutors continue to monitor the condition of the third critically injured victim, which could impact Perez’s sentencing.
Perez remains in custody without bail as he awaits his April 8 sentencing.
