When we think of our children, so often we think of the dangers that could befall them as they grow up. Most of us know from experience just how harsh today’s world can be, and so the idea that our sons and daughters will have to face jeopardy at some time or another is enough to chill a parent to the bone.
It’s with this in mind, that I can only begin to imagine how trying it must be for parents of children who are physically or mentally less able than others, and so potentially at a disadvantage as a result.
After all, is it their fault they see the world from a different perspective? Is it their fault they’re inclined to react differently to certain situations and events? Of course it isn’t. Sadly, this doesn’t mean they’re always given allowances. Far from it, in fact.
This is something Katarina Söderberg knows only too well. In truth, it cost her son his life.
Eric Torell was a 20-year-old man born with Down’s syndrome and autism. His mom says he was severely disabled and struggled with his speech, only ever really using the word “mum”, as per Swedish news outlet Expressen.
In the early hours of Thursday morning, having left his mom’s house to visit his dad, Eric disappeared. According to Katarina, this wasn’t uncommon, though he’d always been found or returned safely before.
This time, however, Eric didn’t return.
A toy weapon
Eric was carrying a toy gun – one made for five-year-olds – that he’d been given as a gift, and at around 04:00 local time in Stockholm, he was approached by three police officers responding to reports of a man with a gun.
The officers ordered Eric to discard what they took to be a dangerous weapon, before all three fatally shot him after he acted “threateningly” towards them.
His mother, Katarina, however, refutes the police report, claiming that they aren’t telling the truth of what happened.
“It’s impossible to understand. He wouldn’t hurt a fly,” Ms Söderberg said.
Eric was taken to hospital after the encounter, but was later confirmed dead from his injuries. An investigation into possible police misconduct is now under way.
What a truly sad story. Did it really take three police officers to shoot him over what they perceived to be a weapon? Leave your thoughts in the comments box.
As for us, all we can say is Rest In Peace Eric, we hope you find happiness wherever you are now. Share this story to honor Eric’s memory, and help us spread word of this terrible tragedy.
