Teenager's Murder in Great Bend Raises Youth Violence Concerns

The death of a 14-year-old girl, allegedly at the hands of another teen, prompts questions about relationship violence among youth.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:03am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled, blood-stained piece of paper or fabric, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying the gritty, investigative nature of this tragic crime.The tragic loss of a young life sparks urgent calls for action to address the escalating crisis of youth violence.Wichita Today

The Great Bend community is devastated after a 14-year-old girl, Rubi Paulina Perez, was allegedly murdered by another 14-year-old. Rubi's friends describe her as a kind person who would never hurt anyone. The Wichita Family Crisis Center says teen violence has been escalating, with social media contributing to the normalization of violent behavior. The center emphasizes the importance of educating teens about red flags in relationships and providing a safe space for them to disclose abuse.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the growing problem of youth violence, particularly in the context of relationship dynamics. It raises concerns about the factors driving this trend, such as the influence of social media, and the need for more effective prevention and intervention strategies to support vulnerable teens.

The details

According to police, Rubi Paulina Perez, a 14-year-old girl, was murdered by another 14-year-old. Rubi's friends describe her as a kind and gentle person who would never hurt anyone. The Wichita Family Crisis Center says teen violence has been escalating in recent years, with the level of violence among teens specifically increasing. The center believes social media is contributing to the normalization of violent behavior among youth.

  • Rubi Paulina Perez was murdered on April 13, 2026.

The players

Rubi Paulina Perez

A 14-year-old girl who was allegedly murdered by another 14-year-old in Great Bend, Kansas.

Bella

Rubi's friend who is devastated by the loss.

Briley

Another of Rubi's friends who describes her as a kind and gentle person.

Lauren Koehler

The volunteer and communications manager at the Wichita Family Crisis Center, who discusses the escalating trend of teen violence and the role of social media.

Wichita Family Crisis Center

An organization that provides support and resources for those affected by domestic and teen violence, and emphasizes the importance of education and creating a safe space for teens to disclose abuse.

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What they’re saying

“It is just so hard to believe that you wake up every day, and your best friend goes missing, and then you have to hear at school that they did not find her alive, you know.”

— Bella, Rubi's friend

“She was so kind. I don't think I've ever heard her talk badly about anyone. She wouldn't hurt a fly.”

— Briley, Rubi's friend

“The scariest part for us, I think, is that not only are the numbers of domestic violence and teen violence rising, but also the level of violence among teens specifically is increasing, and that can be really, really scary.”

— Lauren Koehler, Volunteer and communications manager, Wichita Family Crisis Center

“If we talk about it more, educate teens more, and normalize that unhealthy and abusive relationships and behaviors are not okay and should not be allowed, then we will eventually open up more conversations, and teens will not be as afraid to speak up when they are experiencing something like that.”

— Lauren Koehler, Volunteer and communications manager, Wichita Family Crisis Center

What’s next

The Wichita Family Crisis Center says it is critical to provide a safe space where teens can disclose if they are victims of a violent relationship. The center is available 24/7 to offer help and support to those in abusive situations.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need to address the growing problem of youth violence, particularly in the context of relationship dynamics. Increased education, open dialogue, and the creation of safe spaces for teens to seek help are essential to preventing such tragedies and supporting vulnerable young people.