In La Tinta, Guatemala, a 15-year-old girl, Débora Rebeca Xi Artola, tragically lost her life after being electrocuted by a high-tension power cable while taking selfies on a rooftop with friends on August 1, 2024.
Débora and three friends were on the roof of a two-story building practicing dance moves and taking photos when she accidentally made contact with a high-voltage cable. The cable, carrying thousands of volts of electricity, delivered a fatal shock that likely killed her instantly. The intense current caused her head to sever from her body, and she fell approximately 20 feet to the pavement below, a scene witnessed by horrified onlookers who rushed to help but were unable to save her.
Emergency services responded quickly, but Débora was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have since opened an investigation to confirm the accident’s details and determine if any negligence was involved.
Débora’s death has deeply impacted her family and community. Her mother, Andrea Xi, publicly shared her grief on Facebook, posting a tribute alongside a photo of Débora during her quinceañera (15th birthday) in March. “I love you forever. My princess,” she wrote, expressing the heartbreak of losing her daughter so suddenly.
Another relative, Erik Artola, shared a TikTok video compiling clips from Débora’s life with the message, “You are in heaven, but you deserved to be here longer.” This message reflected the profound sense of loss felt by those who knew her.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Débora’s family during this difficult time. The fundraising effort has raised over $2,500 so far.
This tragic incident is part of a growing global concern regarding selfie-related deaths, especially among young people. Between 2008 and 2021, an estimated 379 people lost their lives in selfie-related accidents. These incidents often involve risky behavior in dangerous environments, with falls, drowning, and electrocution being the leading causes of death. The alarming rise in such fatalities highlights the need for increased awareness and safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.