Larissa Eugenia Estrada, a 13-year-old girl from Clinton, North Carolina, tragically died on December 7, 2012. The incident occurred at her father's home in Sampson County. According to reports, Larissa was shot by her father, Edwin L. Estrada, who then took his own life. The initial investigation indicated that Edwin Estrada shot his daughter before killing himself.
Larissa was found by her brother, who had gone to their father's home after Larissa did not return to the home they shared with their mother. Upon finding his sister and father, the brother called 911 and attempted to drive Larissa to the hospital. She was later transferred to UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, where she succumbed to her injuries.
Larissa Estrada was remembered by her friends and teachers as a peacekeeper and a fighter. She was described as a sweet and precious child who excelled in her tasks and tried to maintain peace among her fellow students. Larissa was also an avid soccer player, playing forward and midfield for the 98 CASL Chelsea, an elite team for her age group. Her coach and teammates remembered her passion for the game and her positive attitude, which resonated with everyone around her.
The Sampson County Sheriff's Office conducted an investigation into the incident, but no motive for the shooting was released. The case left the community, including Larissa's teachers, classmates, and friends, reeling from the news. They honored her memory by releasing balloons and wearing purple, her favorite color. A memorial was set up by a tree in front of her school, with written messages and yellow ribbons in her memory. Larissa's death was a tremendous loss to her school and community, and she was deeply missed by those who knew her.
