Tragic Death of Texas Cheerleader Raises Concerns Over Parent Negligence

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
16/08/2024 21h14

In a heartbreaking incident, a 12-year-old girl from Texas lost her life after her parents allegedly failed to seek medical attention for her life-threatening injuries. Instead, they attempted to treat her condition with smoothies and vitamins, according to authorities. The incident has raised serious concerns about the parents' negligence and the importance of timely medical intervention.

The young girl, identified as Miranda Sipps, was a cheerleader at Jourdanton Junior High School. She reportedly suffered unexplained life-threatening injuries, which went untreated for approximately four days before she tragically passed away on Monday, according to local news outlet WKRC.

Authorities revealed that instead of seeking medical help, the parents, 36-year-old Denise Balbaneda and 40-year-old Gerald Gonzales, allegedly tried to treat their daughter's injuries using homemade smoothies and vitamin supplements. However, this haphazard approach proved futile as an unconscious person cannot swallow liquids, as pointed out by Sheriff David Soward.

As Miranda's condition deteriorated further, and she began having difficulty breathing, her mother finally dialed 911. First responders intercepted Miranda and her mother on the highway as they were en route from their residence. Deputies discovered Miranda alive but unconscious, with limited responsiveness over the four-day period.

Sheriff Soward grimly described the situation, stating, "She was not talking. She basically could flutter her eyes and move her hands a little bit over a four-day period. And they had her laying on a pallet in the house." Tragically, the 12-year-old girl was pronounced dead upon arrival at the emergency room.

Following the incident, Denise Balbaneda and Gerald Gonzales were promptly arrested on Tuesday and charged with a first-degree felony for injury to a child due to omission. Investigators suspect that the parents deliberately avoided seeking medical attention to evade law enforcement involvement.

Even after contacting emergency services, Balbaneda left their residence and met the responders on the road. The investigation into Miranda's untimely death is ongoing, with a comprehensive autopsy expected to shed light on the precise cause of her passing.

A GoFundMe page has been set up in memory of Miranda, where her legacy of love and laughter is described by the organizer. The page states, "She was taken from us far too soon in an unexpected way, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and memories that we will cherish forever." The young cheerleader would have celebrated her 13th birthday later this month.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of seeking immediate medical attention in cases of severe injuries. Authorities will continue their investigation to determine the full circumstances behind Miranda's passing, as the community mourns the loss of a vibrant young life.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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