Beverly Fundraiser Set For Teen Girl Shot Her Own Home

BEVERLY, MA — A community fundraiser to benefit the Beverly teen who is still recovering from severe injuries suffered when she was shot in her own home six months ago will be held at The Castle Restaurant next week.

Darianna Cruz, who was 15 when her then-14-year-old boyfriend was accused of shooting her in the head in October 2025, underwent two more surgeries on April 6 related to her injuries, with more already being scheduled.

• North Shore Rallies Around Beverly Teen As She Recovers From Gunshot Wound To Head

She suffered a stroke and had six surgeries in the immediate aftermath of the shooting, after which she was flown to an ICU in critical condition.

The teen accused of the shooting is being prosecuted as a youthful offender whose case will be heard in juvenile court.

Described by those who love her as a "bright-spirited, funny, and intelligent" young woman, Ruiz has spent the last months defying every medical expectation, they said.

Bullet fragments remain in her head six months after the shooting.

"Her resilience has become a beacon of hope for her family, who describe her as a warrior fighting to reclaim her independence despite these ongoing hurdles," fundraiser organizers said.

The event is set for April 16 at The Castle in Beverly from 4 to 9 p.m.

A GoFundMe to raise money for her medical expenses has received more than $25,000 in donations.