Cosmetologist Trial: Kim K Lookalike's Fatal Injection

A jury trial has commenced for Vivian Alexandra Gomez, a 53-year-old cosmetologist accused of involuntary manslaughter in the 2023 death of Christina Ashten Gourkani, a 34-year-old model known for her resemblance to Kim Kardashian. Jury selection began recently at the Hall of Justice in Redwood City, California.

Gourkani, who had a significant social media following, died just one day after allegedly receiving illegal buttock enhancement injections from Gomez. Prosecutors stated her death was due to respiratory failure and a pulmonary embolism. Gomez, who pleaded not guilty, also faces charges for practicing medicine without a license and great bodily injury enhancements.

According to prosecutors, Gourkani found Gomez online and hired her for the procedure. On April 19, 2023, Gomez reportedly met Gourkani and her fiancé at a San Francisco hotel to administer at least two injections of what was supposed to be gluteal silicone. Immediately after, Gourkani became severely ill, experiencing convulsions, and was rushed to the hospital where she died the following day.

An autopsy revealed Gourkani died from an embolism and toxins in her system. The FDA has previously warned about the serious risks associated with non-approved silicone injections, including embolisms, disfigurement, stroke, and death, particularly when administered in highly vascular areas like the buttocks.

Gomez was arrested shortly after Gourkani's death and faces multiple charges. She is currently out on $200,000 bail, with court orders restricting her travel and requiring her to surrender her passports. The trial is expected to last four weeks.