Colombia was struck with sorrow when an eight-year-old girl, Salomé Bohórquez, lost her life following a routine dental procedure. The heartbreaking incident occurred after she had a tooth extracted during a visit to a dentist’s office in Honda, Tolima. The young girl’s passing has left her family devastated and searching for answers.
Salomé’s mother, Azucena Triana, recounted the series of events that led to her daughter’s untimely demise. Salomé had been experiencing dental pain, prompting her mother to take her to Dr. José Herrera’s office on August 4. Dr. Herrera, an orthodontist, examined Salomé’s condition and recommended x-rays at a nearby lab. The x-rays revealed a chipped molar, prompting Dr. Herrera to schedule an emergency procedure for the same day to alleviate the pain.
However, tragedy struck during and after the procedure. Salomé began bleeding profusely after the tooth extraction. In response, Dr. Herrera offered to transport the distressed mother and her daughter to San Juan de Dios Hospital. Tragically, despite their efforts, Salomé’s condition deteriorated rapidly. Azucena Triana recalled the heartbreaking moment when Salomé choked on her own blood, a devastating culmination of events that took her young daughter’s life.
Adding to the sorrow of the situation, Salomé had been previously diagnosed with anemia. However, she had shown signs of recovery after undergoing treatments recommended by her pediatrician. Her twin brother, Nicholas, is also grappling with the loss of his sister, further highlighting the emotional toll this tragedy has taken on the family.
Despite the heart-wrenching loss, the family has expressed understanding and restraint. Azucena Triana emphasized that they are not placing blame solely on Dr. Herrera. She recognized that more information is needed before any conclusions can be drawn, awaiting the results of the autopsy to shed light on the circumstances that led to Salomé’s passing.
Salomé Bohórquez’s memory lives on through the love and cherished moments shared by her family. Described as a vibrant and joyful child, Salomé was known for her love of singing and creating content on TikTok. Her older sister, María Bohórquez, fondly remembered her as “the life of the party” in their home, reflecting the impact she had on her loved ones.
As Colombia mourns the loss of this young life, the incident also raises important questions about dental procedures, medical protocols, and the safety of patients, particularly children. The family’s measured response in seeking answers serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and thorough investigations in such unfortunate events.