A homicide investigation is underway in Los Angeles following the death of 12-year-old Khimberly Zavaleta, who allegedly died from injuries sustained when a classmate struck her in the head with a metal water bottle.
Background
Zavaleta was a student at Reseda Charter High School when the incident occurred on February 17. According to her mother, Zavaleta was in the school hallway at dismissal time when a male student approached her and began pushing. Zavaleta reportedly asked the student to resolve the issue at the principal's office, but he ignored her.
The mother stated that Zavaleta stepped in to protect her younger sister, who was being bullied by the same individual. It was during this intervention that Zavaleta allegedly was struck in the head with the metal bottle. While KABC reported that the altercation was captured on camera, the footage does not show the specific moment the bottle was thrown.
KTLA reported that Zavaleta went to the emergency room following the incident and was sent home. Days later, she collapsed and was taken back to the hospital with a brain hemorrhage. She was placed in a medically-induced coma and underwent emergency surgery before her heart gave out, according to The Los Angeles Times.
The Investigation
Los Angeles police's Robbery-Homicide Division, Valley Bureau Section confirmed it is investigating Zavaleta's death, but declined to provide details about the case. Los Angeles Unified School District officials told The Los Angeles Times that they are cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
Key Takeaways
- 12-year-old Khimberly Zavaleta died after sustaining head injuries at Reseda Charter High School.
- The incident occurred on February 17 while Zavaleta was defending her younger sister from a bully.
- LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division is conducting a homicide investigation into the death.
What's Next
Law enforcement officials will continue to review evidence, including surveillance footage of the school hallway. Authorities have not yet announced if any individuals have been formally charged in connection with the death.