URGENT UPDATE: The Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office has confirmed that the use of deadly force by a West Valley Police officer was justified during a tragic shooting incident on New Year’s Day. The suspect, Erik Bertelsen, was fatally shot after he brutally stabbed his parents, Terri and Kerry Bertelsen, in an alarming act of violence that unfolded just before law enforcement intervened.
According to reports, District Attorney Sim Gill announced the ruling on Friday, shedding light on the dire circumstances leading to this horrific event. Authorities revealed that Bertelsen had a troubling history, having recently been released from prison and battling addiction to illegal drugs. His mental health struggles included multiple psychiatric commitments, with family members expressing grave concerns about his behavior prior to the incident.
Gill emphasized the urgent need for enhanced mental health resources to help prevent such tragedies in the future. “We must address the systemic issues that lead to these events,” he stated, highlighting that Bertelsen had been “pink sheeted” three times—an indication of the urgent mental health crises he faced.
Just days before the shocking incident, relatives, including Chasity Ulibarri, warned authorities about Bertelsen’s alarming behavior. Ulibarri revealed, “I kind of felt like something was going to happen. I sent the cops over for a welfare check four days ago because I knew he would keep taking their phones.” Tragically, by the time officers arrived at the Bertelsen home, it was too late; they discovered the lifeless bodies of Terri and Kerry Bertelsen alongside their son.
This heartbreaking case has raised critical questions about the adequacy of mental health interventions and the support systems available for individuals in crisis. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this violence, officials are calling for a reevaluation of resources dedicated to mental health care.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and further updates are expected as authorities continue to assess the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. The community is left in shock, mourning the loss of two lives and seeking answers to prevent future tragedies.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
