Another day of testimony wrapped up in the high-profile trial of three former San Antonio police officers accused in the 2023 shooting death of Melissa Perez, a case closely watched for what it could mean for how law enforcement responds to mental health crises.
Former SAPD officers Alfred Flores, Eleazar Alejandro and Nathaniel Villalobos are each charged in connection with Perez’s death.
Body camera footage shown in court captured moments leading up to the shooting, when Perez — who was experiencing a mental health crisis — retreated into her apartment after reportedly causing more than $2,000 worth of damage to a fire alarm system.
Law enforcement expert Willie Ng, a master peace officer, said the case underscores the difficulty of split-second decisions during mental health calls an