NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Emotions are still raw for the family of Joe Perez, one of four victims killed in the Waffle House shooting last year.
Mother of Waffle House shooting victim still sends texts nearly a year after his death
His mother did not mince words when talking about the accused shooter and his father. Travis Reinking is accused of using an AR-15 to shoot and kill four people including Joe at the restaurant on April 22, 2018.
Authorities said Travis' father, Jeffrey Reinking, gave him back the gun that was allegedly used in the shooting.
Trisha Perez and her family filed a civil lawsuit against the father last year.
"He's totally responsible, totally," Trisha told NewsChannel 5.
Jeffrey is facing felony gun charges in Illinois. He's accused of giving the Travis the AR-15 allegedly used in the shooting, despite his son's mental health history.
Travis had his right to own guns in Illinois revoked after his arrest near the White House last year. His four guns were turned over to his father who assured authorities he would keep the weapons from his son.
However, Jeffrey gave it back before Travis moved to Nashville.
"I know Travis was the one who pulled the trigger, had Jeffrey not given those guns this would have never have happened. It's not about the money, but I want to break the father, I don't want him to have a penny left to his name and I want him in jail," she said.
Their civil lawsuit is ongoing.
If convicted, Jeffrey could spend three years in prison. Meanwhile, his son is expected to appear in court next month.
He is competent to stand trial but legal experts expect an insanity defense.
