Investigation of police shooting of 2-year-old opens

THREE POLICE officers are being investigated in connection with Thursday’s fatal shooting of a two-year-old and the serious wounding of a 15-year-old in San Carlos.

The facts are still murky about why the officers shot at the vehicle carrying the children, which was approaching a checkpoint. The officers involved have been assigned to desk duty at police headquarters in Ancón reports La Prensa

Auxiliary Prosecutor Marcelino Aguilar explained that charges have not been filed as evidence is still being collected.
Homicide investigator Rafael Baloy said that the officers involved had ranks between sergeant and lieutenant. Baloy added that they were not in uniform at the time. They have given statements about the incident.
He stressed that the investigation will be carried out in a fair manner and evidence will not be altered.
Pólice Director Julio Moltó told a press conference on Friday, October 24 that the shooting was a tragedy.
"We will apply disciplinary regulations as they are required," he said, adding that the investigation must be given time to be properly conducted.
He said sanctions could include the dismissal of the three officers.
The incident occurred at a roadblock set up on the Pan-American Highway in response to reported criminal activity in the San Carlos area. The car involved in the shooting was similar to the one being sought by pólice, Moltó said.
Ombudsperson Lilia Herrera announced that she will ask police for a report of the incident when it is available.
She said she has already opened up her own investigation due to the "possible violation of the right to life and to the regulation that establishes the use of force by security units."