Child Arrested in Connection with Reseda Girl’s Death After Reported Bullying Incident
Child Arrested in Connection with Reseda Bullying Incident
Los Angeles police have arrested a child in connection with the death of 12-year-old Khimberly Zavaleta, who succumbed to injuries after being struck in the head by a metal water bottle, allegedly during an incident related to bullying at Reseda High School.
According to Khimberly’s family, the girl was attempting to defend her sister from bullies when the tragic incident occurred. After spending several days in a coma and undergoing surgery, Khimberly passed away in late February, as confirmed by her mother.
"I’m devastated. I’m full of pain, thinking about how I will never see my daughter again," said Elma Chuquipa, Khimberly’s mother, conveying the profound loss in Spanish.
In response to the incident, the Zavaleta family filed a lawsuit against the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) in March, alleging that the district failed to protect its students from bullying. Family attorney Robert Glassman emphasized the broader implications of Khimberly’s case during a news conference, stating, "On the afternoon of Feb. 17, Khimberly was trying to protect her sister. She stepped in when the school didn’t. This tragedy really highlights and underscores the very real and very devastating consequences of unchecked bullying."
The family contends that Khimberly’s sister had experienced bullying prior to the fatal incident, alleging that the school "did not do anything" to intervene.
Glassman also reported that Khimberly suffered a brain bleed from the blow to her head before being placed in a medically induced coma. She ultimately died at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital on February 25.
Despite multiple requests for information regarding the circumstances surrounding Khimberly’s death, the Zavaleta family claims that the LAUSD has not provided any details. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) confirmed that a homicide investigation is ongoing, although they have not disclosed whether a suspect has been identified.
