Horrific Bodycam Footage Reveals Utah Man’s Deadly Rampage Before Police Fatally Shoot Him
Disturbing police bodycam footage has emerged, capturing the harrowing moment West Valley City officers responded to a New Year’s Day emergency and discovered Erik Bertelsen, 35, savagely attacking his parents. The video shows officers issuing frantic commands before firing two fatal shots to end the blood-soaked assault. The tragic incident has reignited debates over mental health crises, systemic failures, and the split-second decisions law enforcement must make in life-or-death situations.
Detailed Timeline of Events
1. The 911 Call That Sparked Chaos
On January 1, 2025, at approximately 5:12 p.m., West Valley City dispatchers received a 911 call from the Bertelsen residence. Although the caller remained silent, the sound of chilling screams echoed in the background. Recognizing the urgency, dispatchers kept the line open and dispatched officers to the home at 3310 W. Enterado Avenue.
2. Officers Enter a Nightmare
Officers arrived by 5:20 p.m. and knocked on the door, but no one responded. Hearing disturbing noises, they forced entry into the basement, where they encountered a scene of unspeakable horror: Erik Bertelsen, armed with a knife, was relentlessly stabbing one of his parents, who lay motionless on the ground.
3. A Desperate Confrontation
The bodycam footage shows officers shouting at Bertelsen to drop the knife and raise his hands. Ignoring their commands, he continued the attack. With no other options, an officer fired two shots, fatally striking Bertelsen. Even after being wounded, he refused to relinquish the knife, forcing officers to remain on high alert. The officer who fired the shots was visibly shaken, stepping outside moments later to regain composure.
4. The Devastating Aftermath
Terrie Bertelsen, 63, and Kerry Bertelsen, 67, were pronounced dead at the scene, their bodies bearing multiple stab wounds. Erik Bertelsen succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward. Following protocol, the officer involved in the shooting was placed on paid administrative leave while the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office initiated an investigation.
Key Details from the Bodycam Footage
Released on January 20, 2025, under Utah’s open records law, the bodycam footage offers an unfiltered glimpse into the chaos. Police Chief Colleen Jacobs called the incident a tragedy, acknowledging its emotional toll on the community and officers alike. Despite the horrifying circumstances, law enforcement experts praised the officers for their discipline and composure, with retired deputy police chief Chris Bertram commending their response to an unimaginable situation.
Erik Bertelsen’s Troubled Past
Bertelsen had a long history of violent behavior. His criminal record included aggravated assault and kidnapping charges. He had been paroled just five days before the attack after serving time for repeated parole violations.
On December 22, 2024, Bertelsen was arrested after being found running outside in his underwear while high on meth. In 2009, he made headlines for terrorizing guests at a house party, wielding knives, and declaring the devil was present. Convicted of aggravated assault, he served nine months in jail and three years of probation. The following year, he was convicted of kidnapping after holding a former girlfriend hostage and threatening her life.
Family and Community in Shock
The Bertelsens’ stepdaughter, Chasity Ulibarri, revealed she had requested a welfare check just days before the tragedy, sensing something was amiss. Neighbors, while aware of Erik’s troubled behavior, were shocked by the brutality of the attack. The community mourned the loss of Terrie and Kerry, remembered as kind and devoted parents.
Obituaries Reflect a Stark Contrast
Erik Bertelsen’s obituary portrayed him as a loving son and brother with a passion for sports and music, offering a striking contrast to his violent actions. Meanwhile, obituaries for Terrie and Kerry celebrated their warmth, humor, and deep love for family, leaving many grappling with the complexity of the tragedy.
Ongoing Investigation and Broader Implications
The release of the bodycam footage has sparked heated public debate. While some emphasize the need for improved mental health and substance abuse resources, others question whether more could have been done to prevent the tragedy. As the investigation unfolds, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the challenges faced by families and first responders in moments of crisis.