A teenage boy was shot multiple times by a rookie cop while enjoying his cheeseburger at a McDonald’s parking lot.
17-year-old Erik Cantu was left in critical condition after getting his organs punctured by bullets when a police officer opened fire on him while he was eating a cheeseburger in his vehicle in San Antonio.
According to the reports, 25-year-old former soldier and rookie cop James Brennand, who had been on the force for just several months, approached Cantu’s car last Wednesday after mistaking it for the vehicle that allegedly evaded him the night before.
As seen in disturbing bodycam footage, the officer approached the teen’s car and opened the driver’s door without first alerting Cantu who was eating his meal behind the wheel.
“Get out of the car!” the officer shouted, prompting the startled teen to reverse and attempt to flee the scene.
Meanwhile, Officer Brennand – who was allegedly struck by the door of the car that he opened seconds later – pulled out his gun and fired several rounds into the car, severely injuring Cantu in the process before calling for backup.
After the shocking incident, Cantu was given CPR and rushed to the hospital where he remains in critical condition according to his family.
While the police initially charged him with the assault of a police officer and resisting arrest, these charges were soon dropped.
The police also took action against Brennand whom they swiftly fired. Since he was employed by the force for just a few months and was still on a probationary period, there is no option for the disgraced officer to appeal his termination.
As of this writing, it remains unclear if the officer will face any charges.
“That case is pending. We will have to wait until SAPD files the entire case in our office. We will then review it,” Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales said.
“My concern right now is with the health of this young man, with his parents’ ability to be by his side, and so that’s why we have done what we have done. It’ll take some time for SAPD to file the complete case with us and then we’ll make the decision.”
Cantu currently remains in the hospital with his family by his side as he is fighting for his life after suffering multiple bullet wounds.
“Erik and our family would like to thank all of our family, friends, the great city of San Antonio and everyone around the world that has sent their heartfelt prayers and blessings,” the family’s attorney, Brian Powers, said in a statement.
“Erik is still in critical condition and is being monitored closely.point 187 | Surgeries were performed to repair injuries to a few major organs as a result of the penetration of multiple bullets.point 285 |
Erik is currently on a life support system that is keeping his lungs operating and remains on a vast amount of sedatives to hopefully ease the discomfort and pain.point 135 | 1
“He has a great medical staff that has been working diligently around the clock to provide him great care. Erik is struggling and we know that recovery will not be easy for him. Every moment is critical and the uncertainty is quite painful. We ask that everyone please keep Erik in your thoughts and prayers.”
What are your thoughts on this matter? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to SHARE this post with your family and friends. For more news and stories, follow us on Facebook!
Recommended Video For You!
Police rescues baby from plastic bag in Georgia