POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) – Authorities in Idaho say an investigation is ongoing after a 17-year-old autistic boy was severely injured in a shooting involving officers.

Police say they were responding to a report about a physical disturbance at a home in Pocatello over the weekend.

Family members say they are still trying to process what happened.

“He had the brain of a little kid about 5 years old,” his aunt, Ana Vazquez, said. “I always come every weekend and I decided to go to Walmart first, but after I got out, that’s when they called me screaming.”

When Vazquez finally made it to the house, police wouldn’t let her get close. She says her nephew has his difficulties, but he can be calmed down.

According to Vazquez, her nephew, Victor Perez, genuinely liked the police and isn’t sure why officers used so much force.

A video that has been shared online reportedly shows police shooting the teen who was armed with a knife seconds after they arrived.

“I know the position of the police, but only one can at least stop him. You have to shoot? Nine bullets … they took nine bullets out of that kid,” she said.

The shooting has created a firestorm of controversy in the community, with people claiming police brutality.

The boy’s grandfather, who witnessed the shooting, also said he doesn’t understand why things happened the way they did.

“He [his grandson] was trying to tell them not to shoot and everything,” he said.

Either way, the family is now hoping and waiting for the best possible outcome for their boy’s recovery.

The 17-year-old remains hospitalized. He also has had to have his leg amputated.

According to the family, doctors said Perez will have permanent brain damage.

There’s been no immediate comment given from the mayor, sheriff’s office or state police regarding the situation.