Family demands justice for Anthony Padilla after police inaction in shooting case

The El Paso County Board of County Commissioners meeting on March 25, 2025, featured a poignant and emotional discussion surrounding the tragic death of Anthony Padilla, who was shot by Kevin McCarthy in March 2023. Family members of Padilla, including his mother Sherry Padilla and brother Ian Padilla, addressed the commissioners, demanding justice and accountability for the actions of both McCarthy and the responding sheriff's deputies.

During the meeting, Sherry Padilla recounted the harrowing details of her son's death, emphasizing the inaction of the deputies who arrived at the scene. She described how Anthony was left on the ground for six minutes, pleading for help while the deputies allegedly provided comfort to McCarthy, the shooter. Sherry criticized the deputies for failing to administer critical medical aid, which she believes contributed to her son's death.

The Padilla family expressed their frustration with the handling of the case by District Attorney Michael Allen, who initially promised justice but later claimed that McCarthy had a valid self-defense argument. They highlighted the lack of transparency in the grand jury proceedings, noting that key evidence, including video footage of the incident, was not presented to the jury.

The family called for an independent investigation into the shooting and the actions of the sheriff's deputies, asserting that McCarthy should be charged with murder. They also demanded accountability for the deputies involved, accusing them of racial bias and negligence in their response to Anthony's pleas for help.

The meeting underscored the ongoing concerns about police conduct and accountability in El Paso County, as the Padilla family seeks justice for their loss. The commissioners were urged to take action to ensure that such incidents are thoroughly investigated and that those responsible are held accountable.