Today marks a somber day in the case of Christina Gourkani, a popular Kim Kardashian look-alike model and social media influencer who tragically passed away on April 20 due to complications following silicone injections administered by an unlicensed cosmetologist. Vivian Gomez, the Florida woman accused of causing Gourkani's death, is set to be arraigned in a San Mateo County courtroom, facing two felony counts for involuntary manslaughter and practicing medicine without a license, reports NBC Bay Area.
According to the San Mateo County District Attorney, Steve Wagstaffe, Gourkani found Gomez on social media and they agreed to meet at a hotel room in Burlingame on April 19 so Gomez could administer the injections, which eventually led to Gourkani's untimely death. The 34-year-old influencer was known for her uncanny resemblance to Kim Kardashian and had invested a substantial sum in cosmetic changes to enhance her similarity to the reality star, Hoodline reports.
View this post on Instagram
As was reported by the Los Angeles Times, Gourkani and her boyfriend met with Gomez at a Marriott hotel in Burlingame for the procedure, where she received at least two injections of what was supposedly gluteal silicone. Sadly, Gourkani began to experience distressing symptoms including convulsions, and despite her boyfriend's quick efforts to call 911, she succumbed to complications the following day at a nearby hospital.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been quite vocal about the dangers involved with silicone injections for body contouring. In 2021, the FDA issued a warning stating that these procedures, which are not approved by the FDA, can lead to serious consequences such as long-term pain, embolisms, disfigurement, stroke, and even death. The tragic case of Christina Gourkani is an unfortunate example of these potential risks.
View this post on Instagram
Though Gourkani's loss is immeasurable, her family is seeking justice for her untimely death, as are the authorities who have been working arduously on this case. Following her death, Gomez had attempted to return to Florida, but was arrested at an airport, according to NBC Bay Area. Hoodline previously reported that Gomez would be extradited to Redwood City in order to face charges. As the case moves forward, the focus turns to Gomez's upcoming arraignment, where she will face the legal consequences of her actions.
To remember Gourkani and assist her family during this trying time, a GoFundMe page has been set up in her name. The family has asked for donations in her honor and mentioned that her death is being investigated as a homicide. As this case continues to unfold and Gomez is brought to justice, one can only hope that others take heed of the inherent dangers of unregulated cosmetic procedures like the one Gourkani suffered from so that such a tragedy is not repeated.
