15-year-old dies after going into cardiac arrest at school, fire officials say

DUNWOODY, Ga. (WANF/Gray News) - A 15-year-old high school student from Georgia died after suffering a medical emergency on campus, according to authorities.

Fire officials said Mia Dieguez went into cardiac arrest Monday at Dunwoody High School and was taken to the hospital. The emergency led to the school being placed on lockdown, and students were held until dismissal, WANF reports.

A person was arrested in connection to Mia’s death, according to WANF. Police did not say who was arrested or list any charges. It is also unknown if the person, who was arrested Monday evening, is a student.

Dunwoody Principal Tom Bass wrote in a letter to parents that they would not disclose any information about the circumstances surrounding the student’s death.

“We understand the gravity of the situation and have shared the news with our students, teachers and staff this afternoon,” he wrote. “Our deepest sympathies remain with the student’s loved ones during this challenging period.”

Bass said the incident happened as many students were testing, and the school was placed on lockdown to limit movement within the building.

Mia’s sister Paola Covarrubias claims she died of an overdose after she was given drugs at school.

Covarrubias believes Mia overdosed on a fentanyl-laced pill.

Thomas Tran, a 10th grader at the school, calls the incident “concerning.”

“It shows there’s a really bad drug problem,” he said.

Thomas’ father, Long Tran, who is the state representative for Dunwoody, also spoke about the incident.

“It doesn’t surprise me that teens would be taking drugs on campus, especially as we get closer to finals week,” he said. “The pressure is going to be there, and for some students, they’re looking for an edge.”

Bass says grief counseling will be offered at the school for both students and staff. He also encourages parents to talk with their children.

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