LAS VEGAS — A man has pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree murder in connection with a shooting that resulted in the deaths of two homeless individuals and injuries to three others.
Cristobal Omar Perez, 32, entered his plea on Monday, just one day prior to the start of his trial. He is facing a potential prison sentence of 40 years to life, with sentencing set for April 8.
Prosecutors have indicated that a third victim is critically injured, and should this individual succumb to their injuries, Perez may face additional charges that could lead to a harsher penalty.
The tragic shooting occurred on December 1, 2023, near a freeway overpass in northeastern Las Vegas. Law enforcement reported that a shooter, having arrived in a black SUV, opened fire indiscriminately, discharging 14 rounds at a group of homeless individuals before being picked up by the vehicle.
According to the arrest report, Perez cited a desire to “protect his family” as motivation for his actions. Following an incident where a man was suspected of attempting to break into his sister-in-law’s home, Perez chose to confront an individual he believed resembled the intruder, who was spotted at a gas station near a homeless encampment.
Authorities also revealed that Perez had arranged for his girlfriend to meet him nearby in a getaway vehicle. She is currently facing charges that include two counts of open murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
In a statement, Perez’s defense attorney noted that his client accepted responsibility for his actions, and other charges against him were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.
