The death of a 12-year-old Reseda student who was hit by a metal water bottle during an alleged bullying incident, is being investigated as a homicide - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
by Stacy PermanMarch 1, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A 12-year-old girl named Khimberly Zavaleta died after being struck in the head with a metal water bottle during an alleged bullying incident at Reseda Charter High School. The incident occurred on February 17 when Zavaleta, who was defending her older sister from bullies, was hit in the hallway by another student. She suffered a catastrophic brain injury and underwent emergency surgery at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital. Despite efforts to save her, she passed away eight days later.
The LAPD is investigating her death as a homicide, with their Robbery-Homicide Division handling the case. Due to the sensitive nature of the investigation involving juveniles, no further details have been released. Zavaleta’s family described her as a beloved child who brought joy into their lives through music, volleyball, and walks with her dogs. They expressed profound grief over her loss, emphasizing the unimaginable pain of losing a youngest child.
Los Angeles Unified School District officials stated they are cooperating with the police investigation and have provided support to affected students and staff, including counseling services. The district reiterated its commitment to student safety and well-being, highlighting their efforts to address such incidents sensitively. This case has drawn attention to the serious consequences of school bullying and the potential legal implications of such actions.
The death of Khimberly Zavaleta serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked bullying behavior in schools. Her family’s statement and the ongoing police investigation underscore the importance of addressing such incidents promptly and comprehensively to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The case has also sparked discussions about school safety, juvenile justice, and the need for stronger anti-bullying measures to protect students from harm.
Verticals
newscalifornia
Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 3/1/2026