17-Year-Old Cheerleader Shot Dead After Leaving House Party

A 17-year-old high school cheerleader from Arizona, USA, was shot and died after leaving a home party on Sunday, May 14.

According to local media KPNX-TV, police said they responded to a shooting in Tolleson, a town 13 miles outside of Phoenix, and discovered Desiree Rivas, 17-year-old, dead at the scene.

Rivas attended Cesar Chavez High School in adjacent Laveen Village and was a popular student and enthusiastic cheerleader for the school.

“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I post about the tragic loss of our amazing friend, athlete, and student Desiree. Our hearts are broken into a million pieces,” the Cesar Chavez High School Spirit line said in a statement on Instagram.

“May Dessy rest in peace and be surrounded by love and light. We love you, Desiree.”

While they look into what caused the incident, the police stated that a suspect is yet unidentified.

The gunfire was heard by the neighbours, who reportedly rushed to save Rivas.

“I was in bed and I heard these gunshots, and they were loud. It seems like they were right in my yard. They were so loud,” April Stokes told FOX10 news

“I was scared to get up because I didn’t know where they were coming from since they sounded so close.”

“She did have friends that did stay behind and assist her, and I was there with her,” one neighbour told CBS 5 after seeing Rivas. “We couldn’t sleep at all last night. I couldn’t sleep at all. I kept thinking about the mother and what she was going through,” she said.

In a letter given to the family earlier this week, school administrators confirmed Rivas’ passing.

“Dear Cesar Chavez Families, It is with deep sadness that we share the tragic news about the passing of Desiree Rivas,” said Principal Robert Grant. “Desiree was a beloved member of our student body and an active member of our spirit line. She will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved her.”

“Desiree passed away after being the victim of a senseless act of violence this past weekend. She loved her peers and was a compassionate and caring member of our student community. At this time, we share our love, support, and sympathy with Desiree’s family and friends.”