A Las Vegas man, Julio Machado Vasquez, 24, is in custody after allegedly driving around with his girlfriend’s lifeless body for nearly two hours following what he claims was an “accidental” shooting, according to police reports.
The incident came to light when a friend, who later called 911, recounted Machado Vasquez’s panicked phone call early Sunday morning. During the call, he reportedly admitted to shooting 24-year-old Selene Perez in the back of the head and asked the friend to help dispose of her body in the desert.
Machado Vasquez described the altercation, stating that an argument led Perez to grab his firearm. He claimed to have taken it back and placed it near his own head, allegedly telling her, “If you’re going to do it, do it right.” The gun, which he believed had the safety on, discharged, striking Perez. The 911 caller questioned the plausibility of his account, especially given the shot placement.
Ignoring pleas from his friend to take Perez to the hospital, Machado Vasquez continued driving, fearing surveillance cameras would implicate him. An LVMPD officer eventually spotted his vehicle and initiated a pursuit. The chase ended with Machado Vasquez crashing into another car. He was apprehended on the scene.
Described as a “toxic” relationship, Machado Vasquez and Perez had been involved in an on-again, off-again dynamic since high school. The 911 caller noted that Machado Vasquez was known to carry a firearm regularly.
Currently held without bail at the Clark County Detention Center, Machado Vasquez faces an open murder charge and an additional charge of disobeying a peace officer resulting in bodily harm. His next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday.
This tragic and chilling case highlights the devastating consequences of toxic relationships and the dangers of irresponsible firearm use. Investigators continue to probe the circumstances of the fatal shooting.
