Beloved Guyer High School Student Brooklyn Rivera, 17, Dies by Suicide, Leaving Lantana in Mourning

April 24, 2025 – Lantana, Texas — The community of Lantana, Texas, and the hallways of Guyer High School are reeling from the tragic loss of Brooklyn Rivera, a vibrant and well-loved student who passed away this week. Brooklyn’s unexpected death by suicide has sent waves of grief through the local school, her family, friends, and the larger Lantana community, leaving a profound and lasting impact on all who knew her.

A Light Gone Too Soon

Brooklyn Rivera was a student who touched the lives of many during her time at Guyer High School. She was known for her kindness, compassion, and infectious smile that brightened the days of everyone around her. Whether she was supporting classmates, participating in extracurricular activities, or helping others with their studies, Brooklyn was always there to lend a hand or offer a word of encouragement.

“Brooklyn had this ability to make everyone feel like they belonged,” said Mrs. Laura Harper, one of Brooklyn’s teachers. “She was a quiet leader, the kind of student who wasn’t always in the spotlight but whose influence was felt by everyone around her. Her warmth and kindness were contagious, and she made our school a better place.”

Her friends describe her as someone who always put others first—someone they could count on for support, a good laugh, and a deep conversation when they needed it most. Many students and teachers at Guyer High School have expressed their disbelief at her passing, sharing memories of Brooklyn’s spirit and the way she brightened even the toughest days.

A Devastating Loss for Family and Friends

Brooklyn’s death has left her family, friends, and community heartbroken. Her parents, who are grieving the loss of their beloved daughter, have requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time. They, like so many others, are left with a deep sense of sorrow and unanswered questions.

“I can’t believe she’s gone,” said a close friend of Brooklyn. “She was such a good person—always willing to listen, always ready to help. She didn’t deserve this. We all loved her so much.”

The Rivera family, along with Brooklyn’s friends, have expressed their hope that her story will help others understand the importance of checking in on loved ones and being more open about mental health struggles.

The Aftermath at Guyer High School

The sudden and tragic loss of Brooklyn has sent shockwaves through Guyer High School, where grief counselors have been made available to support students and staff. Many of Brooklyn’s peers have gathered in the school’s counseling center to share their feelings, mourn her loss, and support one another during this difficult time.

“We are devastated by the loss of Brooklyn,” said Principal Emily Williams of Guyer High School. “She was an extraordinary young woman who was deeply loved by our school community. Our hearts go out to her family and friends. As we navigate this painful moment, we want our students to know that they are not alone, and we are here to support them.”

In the wake of Brooklyn’s death, the school has also initiated discussions on how to better support students’ mental health and create more resources for those who may be struggling. Mental health awareness is becoming an increasingly important topic at the school, and Brooklyn’s passing has brought the issue to the forefront of many conversations among faculty, staff, and students.

“We need to do more to check in with one another and normalize conversations about mental health,” said Ms. Jessica Greene, a counselor at Guyer High. “Students like Brooklyn are often struggling silently. We need to do better at creating an environment where people feel safe reaching out for help.”

A Community United in Grief

The loss of Brooklyn Rivera has not only affected Guyer High School but also the greater Lantana community. Her passing has brought neighbors, friends, and family together in a show of support and solidarity. A candlelight vigil is being planned for later this week to honor Brooklyn’s life and offer the community a chance to come together in remembrance and reflection.

“She was one of those rare people who made everyone feel special,” said a family friend. “Brooklyn was the type of person who lit up a room just by being in it. Her absence is going to leave a hole that no one can fill. But we will honor her by supporting each other and remembering the love she shared with all of us.”

In the wake of Brooklyn’s passing, several fundraisers and memorial efforts have been started in her name. A local charity is working to raise awareness about suicide prevention and mental health resources, hoping to ensure that no other young person feels as isolated as Brooklyn must have felt in her final days.

A Call for Action on Mental Health

Brooklyn’s death has highlighted the critical need for better mental health support for young people, especially in school settings. Many advocates and community leaders are urging schools to take more proactive steps in addressing mental health concerns, providing counseling services, and creating a more open dialogue about emotional well-being.

“We cannot afford to let another child suffer in silence,” said Dr. Maria Sanchez, a mental health advocate. “We must do more to educate students, parents, and educators about the signs of mental distress and how to get help. No one should feel alone in their struggle.”

Brooklyn Rivera’s passing has left a hole in the hearts of everyone who knew her, but her legacy will live on in the efforts made to support mental health awareness and ensure that future generations of students feel safe, seen, and supported.

A Reminder to Reach Out

In the aftermath of this tragedy, Brooklyn’s family and friends are asking the community to remember her for the love and joy she brought into the lives of others. They hope that her story will inspire people to reach out to their loved ones, to listen when someone seems distant, and to take the time to show compassion to those who may be struggling.

Brooklyn Rivera was much more than a student at Guyer High School—she was a friend, a daughter, a sister, and a shining light whose presence made the world a little brighter. Her passing serves as a painful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness, the need to support one another, and the impact that a single life can have on an entire community.

For anyone who may be struggling or in need of support, resources are available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 988 and offers free, confidential support 24/7. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. You are not alone.