Brad Markey-Perez: Florida man, 25, mistakenly shoots roommate in face during 'vigilance drill' in front of children
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
ORANGE CITY, FLORIDA: Brad Markey-Perez, 25, found himself under arrest on Tuesday, April 2, after mistakenly shooting his roommate in the face during what he believed to be a routine "vigilance drill."
The bizarre event occurred in the presence of two small children, leaving authorities and onlookers stunned.
Insights into the tragic shooting
According to details provided by law enforcement officials, the unfortunate incident took place on March 20 at the residence shared by Markey-Perez and his friend.
Markey-Perez, seated in the living room, reportedly encountered his unidentified roommate emerging from the kitchen with a comment that proved fatal in its misunderstanding.
As per the police report, the roommate casually remarked to Markey-Perez, "Bro, I could assassinate you right now in the blink of an eye," reported ClickOrlando.
Mistakenly interpreting this statement as part of their customary armed drills aimed at maintaining vigilance, Markey-Perez responded by brandishing a firearm and inadvertently pulling the trigger.
Tragically, the safety mechanism was disengaged, resulting in a bullet striking the victim in the jaw. The injured individual was swiftly transported to the hospital, fortunately sustaining non-life-threatening injuries.
Unintended shooting occurs in presence of children despite mother's pleas to stop
In a perplexing revelation, both roommates informed authorities of their routine practice of conducting "drills" within their home, often attempting to startle each other. Typically, these drills involved unloaded firearms or the use of inert rounds, as per police statements.
However, the unintended consequences of their actions took a grave turn as the shooting unfolded in the presence of the two small children residing in the home.
Despite the victim's reluctance to press charges against Markey-Perez, the mother of the children informed the police that she had repeatedly instructed both individuals to cease their drills.
Volusia County jail records indicate that Markey-Perez faces two charges of child abuse and culpable negligence causing injury. Despite the severity of the incident, he is notably not facing any charges related to the shooting or possession of firearms.
