In a harrowing incident that unfolded on New Year’s Day in Utah, video reveals the intense moments leading up to the tragic confrontation. This incident has sparked discussions about the ongoing challenges of addressing mental health and substance abuse issues in our communities. What led to the police intervention in this domestic incident?
Tragic Confrontation Captured on Camera
West Valley City Police responded to a chilling 911 call on New Year’s Day, with screams audible in the background. Upon arrival, officers encountered a horrifying scene: 35-year-old Erik Bertelsen was in the act of stabbing his parents, Terrie and Kerry.
The bodycam footage reveals the intense moments as officers confronted Bertelsen. Despite repeated commands to “Drop it! Drop it!” Bertelsen continued his violent assault, leaving officers with no choice but to use lethal force.
Shocking bodycam footage captures Utah cops fatally shooting man who stabbed parents to death https://t.co/btktU5SI7q pic.twitter.com/1Pr5uc4iNi
— New York Post (@nypost) January 21, 2025
A History of Trouble
Erik Bertelsen’s tragic end was not without precedent. His criminal record included previous arrests for assault, kidnapping, and parole violations, painting a picture of a troubled individual with a history of violent behavior.
Recent events had raised red flags about Bertelsen’s mental state. Just days before the fatal incident, he had been arrested for erratic behavior linked to methamphetamine use, highlighting the dangerous intersection of substance abuse and violent crime.
In West Valley, UT, police responded to a distress call and found Erik Bertelsen with a knife. He had fatally stabbed his parents on New Year's Day. He, recently released from prison and using meth, was shot dead by an officer. Law&Crime's Angenette Levy @angenette5 reports. pic.twitter.com/McqvxKDNye
— Law&Crime Network (@LawCrimeNetwork) January 23, 2025
Aftermath and Reflection
West Valley City Police Chief Colleen Jacobs described the incident as “a very tragic incident that happened with the parties involved and for the officers involved as well.” The officer who fired the fatal shots has been placed on administrative leave, following standard department protocol.
Retired deputy police chief Chris Bertram commended the officers for their discipline in an extremely challenging situation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement faces when responding to domestic violence calls and the need for continued training and support for officers in these high-stress scenarios.
