RENO, NEVADA – Shaila Hernandez-Rivas, a 15-year-old North Valleys High School student, has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for the killing of her classmate, Chloe Edwards. The tragic incident occurred on February 19, 2023, when the two girls had agreed to meet and engage in a physical altercation. The confrontation turned deadly when Shaila fatally stabbed Chloe during the fight.
Although Shaila’s defense argued for leniency, citing her age, troubled background, depression, and anxiety, the judge did not reduce her sentence. Instead, Judge Kathleen Drakulich sentenced Shaila to 50 years in prison, with parole eligibility after 20 years. This means that Shaila will be 34 years old before she can be considered for release.
Deputy District Attorney Travis Lucia emphasized that video evidence of the altercation showed Shaila was not acting in self-defense when she stabbed Chloe. He refuted the defense’s claim that Shaila was merely trying to defend herself, emphasizing the severity of her actions.
During the sentencing, members of Chloe’s family addressed Shaila, expressing the grief and pain caused by her actions. Chloe’s sister, Alexis Lepp, lamented the loss of her little sister and expressed the ongoing emotional impact of Chloe’s absence. Their mother, Stephanie Speelman, emphasized that she could never forgive Shaila for taking her daughter’s life.
Before delivering the sentence, Judge Drakulich highlighted the presence of video evidence in the case and urged those in the courtroom to intervene in similar situations rather than record them. This serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unresolved conflicts, especially among young people.
The sentencing of Shaila Hernandez-Rivas for the tragic killing of Chloe Edwards underscores the lasting impact of violence and the profound loss experienced by the victim’s family. It also raises important questions about addressing aggression and conflict resolution among youth, highlighting the need for preventative measures and support systems within school communities.