Pilar Munoz-Chavarria : Atlanta Nursing Student Saves Wounded Child in Shooting

Nursing student hailed as hero after saving boy shot multiple times

ATLANTA – A nursing student and tech at Northside Hospital in Atlanta has been praised for her quick thinking and bravery after she saved the life of a 12-year-old boy who had been shot multiple times in a violent incident in southwest Atlanta.

Pilar Munoz-Chavarria was on her way to work when she heard the sound of gunshots and immediately sprang into action. She witnessed the harrowing scene of a young child covered in blood, prompting her to rush to his aid.

The shooting took place near the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and Hamilton E Holmes Drive, with a video captured by a bystander showing the aftermath of the tragic event. Despite the chaos, Munoz-Chavarria didn’t hesitate to assist the wounded boy.

Ja’Quavious, the 12-year-old victim, was with his older brother selling water when the shooting occurred. The family believes he was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire.

Ja’Quavious sustained three gunshot wounds, with one bullet shattering his arm, another hitting his stomach, and a third still lodged near his spine. Munoz-Chavarria described the scene as chaotic but remained composed as she tended to the boy’s injuries.

“I was trying to calm him down, maintain pressure, and wait for help,” she recounted.

Despite the traumatic experience, Munoz-Chavarria expressed gratitude that she was able to use her nursing training to save Ja’Quavious’s life. Her primary concern was ensuring that he received the necessary medical attention to survive.

Atlanta Police are currently investigating the incident, but as of now, no arrests have been made. Ja’Quavious remains hospitalized at Children’s Egleston Hospital, where he is receiving ongoing treatment for his injuries.

The family has set up a GoFundMe page to support Ja’Quavious’s recovery journey.