Idaho Falls, Idaho – A 19-year-old man has been indicted by a grand jury for second-degree murder following an incident in the parking lot of Compass Academy. Gabriel Aaron Perkins appeared in court on Friday for an initial appearance in front of Magistrate Judge Wiley Dennert. Perkins, who was granted permission to wear civilian clothes, was indicted for several felonies, including second-degree murder, aggravated battery, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in injury or death, and destruction of evidence. He also faces sentencing enhancements related to the use of a deadly weapon.
According to the indictment, Perkins allegedly shot and killed Alexander Barber without premeditation but with malice aforethought. The indictment also states that Perkins intentionally injured Devan Johnson with a firearm. Additionally, Perkins failed to stop and provide assistance to Colton Clark, who was injured in the incident. The indictment further alleges that Perkins concealed a firearm to prevent it from being discovered as evidence in a felony investigation.
During the court appearance, Perkins was given a $300,000 bond. If convicted, he could face a sentence of up to life in prison. An arraignment is scheduled for March 18.
The incident took place in the early hours of the morning in the parking lot of Compass Academy. Perkins arrived with a female minor and another man in a white two-door Chevy truck. They were confronted by Taylor Aughenbaugh and five others, including Barber and two other victims. A fight broke out, leading to the fatal shooting of Barber by Perkins, according to court documents.
Perkins then allegedly shot Johnson in the leg before running over Clark with his truck and fleeing the scene. Clark suffered severe injuries and was admitted to the ICU, while Barber was pronounced dead at the hospital. Johnson and another victim, Aaron Murdoch, were also hospitalized for their injuries.
In a later interview with the police, Perkins admitted to firing the gun but did not mention perceiving Barber as armed or a threat. It is essential to note that the charges against Perkins do not imply guilt, and everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Another individual involved in the incident, Taylor Aughenbaugh, was also indicted by a grand jury and appeared in court earlier on the same day. More details of Aughenbaugh’s hearing can be found in a separate article.
This case has shocked the community of Idaho Falls, as the incident took place on the grounds of a local educational institution. The court proceedings will continue as the defendants face the charges brought against them, and the community awaits justice for the victims.