A 13‑year‑old girl identified as Riley DeArmas was fatally stabbed during a large fight outside an apartment complex on February 4, 2026, according to authorities. The deadly incident unfolded at an apartment complex in northwest Houston when what began as a school‑related dispute escalated into a brawl involving roughly 20 to 30 people.
Police responded to the scene in the 8000 block of Grow Lane around 8 p.m. and found the young girl suffering from at least one stab wound. Emergency personnel transported her to a hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
Young Suspect Detained and Claim of Self‑Defense
A 10‑year‑old boy was detained at the scene after telling officers he stabbed DeArmas and claimed he acted in self‑defense amid the chaotic fight. Houston Police Lt. Larry Crowson said the boy told investigators he was defending himself as tensions flared.
Authorities are continuing to investigate exactly how the confrontation began and whether the claim of self‑defense is supported by evidence. Members of the larger group involved in the disturbance are also being interviewed, and police are reviewing surveillance footage from the area.
Family Rejects Self‑Defense Narrative
Riley’s family has strongly denied that she was the aggressor. Her mother, Ashley DeArmas, told local media that her daughter “was not a violent person” and “would never harm anyone intentionally,” rejecting the suggestion that Riley’s actions justified a self‑defense claim.
Legal Questions Surround Involvement of a Minor
Because Texas law sets the minimum age for criminal responsibility at 10 years old, prosecutors are weighing whether charges should be filed against the boy. Homicide investigators have submitted the case to the Harris County District Attorney’s Office for review once the police investigation concludes.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Probe
In the days following the incident, family, friends and community members gathered to mourn Riley’s life, describing her as “joyful” and “happy” while urging for accountability and justice.
Investigators continue to appeal to witnesses or anyone with video of the brawl to contact the Houston Police Department Homicide Division as the case remains under active review.
