Great Bend, Kansas: A tragic incident in Great Bend, Kansas has left a community in shock after a 14-year-old girl was found dead in a local park, and a fellow middle school student has been charged in connection with her killing.
Authorities say the victim, identified as Rubi Perez, was reported missing on the night of April 8 after attending a class at Holy Family School. Concern grew quickly among family members and the community when she did not return home.
The following morning, just after 9 a.m., police made a grim discovery at Veterans Memorial Park, located near a cemetery and the Holy Family Catholic Parish Center. Officers responding to the area found Rubi’s body behind a large pile of dirt. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to officials, investigators immediately began securing the area and gathering evidence. The location, partially obstructed by construction-related dirt mounds, became the center of an intensive search and forensic operation.
Law enforcement later confirmed that a 14-year-old boy—who attended the same middle school as Rubi—has been taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder. He is currently being held at the Barton County Detention Center. Due to his age, his identity has not been publicly released.
Police say the arrest came within hours of discovering the body, following interviews, search warrants, and ongoing investigation efforts. Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive, and the official cause of death is still pending.
The case has deeply affected students and staff at Great Bend Middle School. Many classmates described Rubi as a bright and kind individual who was active in school sports, including track, volleyball, and basketball. Her sudden death has left peers grieving and searching for answers.
Community members reported seeing a heavy police presence near the park during the investigation, with multiple officers securing the area and blocking access points as evidence was collected.
A detention hearing for the accused is scheduled for April 21, where more details about the case may emerge.
Officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and have urged the public to allow the legal process to unfold as they work toward clarity and justice.
This remains an active and developing case.
