GREAT BEND, Kan. — The Great Bend community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 14-year-old Rubi Perez, an eighth-grade student at Great Bend Middle School, who was found deceased on Thursday morning, April 9, 2026. The tragic event has left classmates, teachers, and the wider community grappling with grief and disbelief.
Rubi was described by friends and teachers as a bright, kind, and joyful student. Her warm personality and willingness to help others made her a beloved member of the school community. Teachers recall her enthusiasm for learning, her positive attitude, and the way she could light up a classroom with her smile. Classmates remember her as a loyal friend who always looked out for those around her.
The loss of Rubi has deeply affected the entire Great Bend school district. Students and staff gathered to support one another in the wake of the tragedy, sharing memories and offering comfort to friends and family. Counselors and local organizations have been made available to provide emotional support to anyone struggling with the news.
