Former Melrose Officer Placed on Leave after Lowell Shooting Death

LOWELL, MA—Two Lowell police officers have been placed on administrative leave as a result of a shooting incident Saturday, one of which was a former Melrose police officer.

Lowell Police announced Wednesday that former Melrose police officer Guillermo Rojas has been placed on administrative pending the outcome of an investigation, along with Officer Chase Suong. Police added that placing the officers on leave pending the outcome of the investigation is standard operating procedure.

Jose Perez, 39, of Lowell was shot and killed Saturday by two police officers after Perez called 911 stating that he was going to "kill everyone," according to a statement from the Middlesex County District Attorney's office. Officers later encountered Perez, who was armed with a meat cleaver and another large knife.

Perez advanced on the officers, causing them to discharge their weapons on him. He was transported to Lowell General Hospital and later pronounced dead.

Both Rojas and Suong administered medical treatment to Perez immediately after the shooting, according to the statement.