The city of La Plata is reeling from the tragic death of a young girl, sparking widespread outrage and calls for justice. Seven-year-old Kim Gómez lost her life on Tuesday night after two teenagers forcibly took control of her mother’s vehicle during a robbery. The perpetrators, aged 14 and 17, allegedly ejected Kim from the moving car, leading to her fatal injuries. This heartbreaking incident has galvanized the community, with residents marching through the streets demanding stricter security measures and accountability.
The incident unfolded when Kim's mother, Florencia, was driving home from a fitness class with her daughter in the backseat. At a red light, the two assailants forced their way into the vehicle, pushing Florencia out. Unbeknownst to them, Kim remained inside. According to witnesses, she fell from the car shortly after it sped off and was dragged for several blocks before the vehicle crashed into a lamppost and ditch. Her father, Marcos Gómez, expressed his anguish, lamenting the loss of his "perfect daughter."
In the immediate aftermath, a delivery driver who witnessed the event attempted to alert the robbers about the child being dragged. Meanwhile, a neighbor helped retrieve Florencia and joined the pursuit. Despite the chaos, the teenagers managed to flee the scene unharmed but were apprehended hours later following information provided by the older teen's father.
The legal proceedings have revealed complexities surrounding juvenile crime. While the 17-year-old faces homicide charges, the younger individual cannot be prosecuted due to his age. This discrepancy has ignited discussions within the Milei administration, prompting calls to lower the age at which minors can be held accountable for serious offenses. Justice Minister Mariano Cúneo Libarona highlighted concerns over the current legislation, emphasizing the potential risks posed by underage criminals. Security Minister Patricia Bullrich echoed these sentiments, advocating for the approval of pending juvenile crime reforms.
This heart-wrenching event has not only left a deep scar on the community but also sparked urgent debates on criminal justice reform. The tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the need for comprehensive changes to protect vulnerable members of society and ensure justice is served.