Police are releasing more details about a deadly shooting inside the Elko Regional Airport on Monday.
Police responded to the airport just after 12:30 p.m. to find the body of Giovanni Perez near the ticket counter while his son was found near the bathroom suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital where he later died.
Police say the father and son were traveling together when their car broke down near Winnemucca and was towed to Elko where they could get another rental car. Police say both entered the bathroom inside the airport, then came out and went back in, where for some unknown reason, the father shot his son. He then exited the restroom and shot himself near the ticket counter.
As a precaution, the bomb squad was called in to inspect the car for explosive devices. Police say they did not find any.
The airport was subsequently shut down and all flights were also canceled.
The airport's terminal and rental car counter could reopen soon although travelers are urged to check their flights before leaving home.
"The Elko Police Department would like to express our deepest condolences to the family.... No family should ever have to experience a loss like this.
"We would also like to implore anyone who is experiencing mental health issues to please reach out to a mental health provider or contact 988, which is the national suicide and crisis line."
UPDATE - APRIL 13, 3:11 p.m.
The Elko Police Department is investigating an active shooter incident at the Elko Airport.
Elko Police say they received a call of an active shooter at the Airport at around 12:30 p.m. on Monday.
When police arrived, they found two people had been struck by gunfire, one of whom was a minor.
Elko Police said the adult victim was confirmed deceased at the scene. The minor was transported to a local hospital, and their condition is currently unknown.
Authorities said there is no threat to the community and no additional information will be released at this time.
According to the Elko Regional Airport, in an online post, all flights are currently canceled until further notice.
The post says if you are scheduled to travel, please contact Delta Air Lines directly for the most up-to-date information on your flight, rebooking options, and next steps. Call Delta at 1-(800) 221-1212 or visit www.delta.com for assistance. Officials said they appreciate the public’s patience and encourage travelers to check for updates as they become available.
ORIGINAL STORY - APRIL 13, 2:35 p.m.
In an online post, police said they are working a crime scene at the airport and have closed the facility to all traffic.
Officials added, “We will update you when it is back open.”
In an update provided by KUTV, airport manager Jim Foster confirmed there was a shooting at the terminal building, but said that is all that can be confirmed at this time.
The investigation remains ongoing.
