On August 31, 2009, Chandler Police responded to the 2300 block of E. Wildhorse Place to investigate a report that a young child was not breathing. Three-year-old Schala Vera was transported to Mercy Gilbert Hospital with multiple bruises on her legs, arms, torso and head. She was pronounced deceased at approximately 4:30 p.m.

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Schala's tragic death inspired the lead investigator on her case, Detective Gary Fuller (deceased 2009) and Chandler Police spokesman at the time, Sgt. Joe Favazzo to put together a coalition of educators, first responders, and law enforcement to educate the public on the importance of child abuse reporting. 

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Sadly, there are many children that continue to die in the hands of abusers. In Schala's memory, CAPAC's members will continue to work tirelessly to prevent child abuse by making sure the public remembers who Schala was and how her life continues to serve a higher purpose for those striving to help end child abuse.