A quiet morning at Elko Regional Airport turned into a scene of unimaginable tragedy on April 13, 2026.
Authorities report that 37-year-old Giovanni Perez shot and killed his 11-year-old son, Callan Perez, inside a terminal restroom.
Following the fatal shooting, the elder Perez walked toward the ticket counter and took his own life.
The incident occurred while the pair were traveling together after their rental vehicle broke down near Winnemucca.
They had been towed to Elko to secure a replacement car when they entered the airport facility.
Security footage shows the father and son entering the restroom twice, with the violence occurring during the second visit.
The tragedy is compounded by a poignant detail regarding the young boy’s recent school achievements.
Callan had recently been recognized in a "Father of the Year" essay contest for his writing about his dad.
In the essay, the 11-year-old described his father as a hero and expressed deep love for him.
Family members have since described Callan as a child with a massive heart and a gentle soul.
As investigators look for answers, a complex and troubled family history has begun to emerge.
Giovanni Perez was reportedly embroiled in a bitter custody dispute involving the boy’s maternal grandparents.
Reports suggest that Perez was attempting to keep Callan isolated from other family members during their travels.
The boy’s mother did not have legal custody at the time of the incident, according to police records.
Perez, a veteran of the United States Army, had previously been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder.
While a specific motive has not been confirmed, officials believe the custody battle and mental health struggles were significant factors.
The Elko Police Department confirmed that Callan was rushed to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
The airport was temporarily placed on lockdown following the active shooter alert as emergency responders arrived.
News of the event spread rapidly across social media, drawing reactions of shock and grief from the public.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the family with funeral expenses and support services.
This case highlights the critical need for better intervention in domestic disputes and mental health crises.
The investigation remains ongoing as local and federal authorities piece together the final hours of the father and son.