PROVO, Utah (ABC4 News) – The walls and window blinds of Alex Opmains’ Provo home are pierced with bullet holes.
Opmanis’ mother, Deborah Preste said the holes are what is left behind from gunfire between her son and Utah County Sheriff’s Deputies.
“First I asked if he was dead and if anyone was hurt,” Preste said.
Preste said the deputies were serving a “no knock” drug warrant at the home near 400 South 900 East.
“That’s what he was in fear of and that’s why he had snake bullets,” she said.
Provo police are investigating the shooting. A spokesman said one of the bullets from Opmanis’ pistol lodged itself in a radio microphone of a Utah County Sheriff’s Deputy.
“Thankfully he was wearing the microphone and the protective vest,” Sgt. Brandon Post with Provo Police said. “If he was not wearing those things, it could have been a lot worse.”
Preste said he son suffers from mental health issues and was just trying to protect himself.
“They could have served the warrant peacefully or done it outside,” Preste added.
She did express her gratefulness for no officers being hurt.
Opmanis remained in Utah County Jail facing charges of attempted homicide, marijuana distribution and possession of a weapon by a restricted person.
