A 12-year-old girl has died days after what her family says was a bullying incident at a Los Angeles school, prompting a homicide investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department.
Khimberly Zavaleta Chuquipa, a sixth-grader at Reseda High School in the San Fernando Valley, suffered a fatal brain injury in mid-February when another student allegedly threw a metal water bottle that struck her in the head in a school hallway, her family and local authorities said.
According to the family, Khimberly initially experienced severe headaches in the days following the incident and was taken to an emergency room, where she was sent home after evaluation. Later, she collapsed and was rushed to UCLA Children’s Hospital, where doctors determined she had suffered a brain hemorrhage. She underwent emergency surgery and was placed in an induced coma, but died on Feb. 25 as her condition deteriorated.
The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that its Robbery-Homicide Division is investigating the case as a homicide, though officials have not released detailed information because the case involves juveniles.
Family Mourns, Community Responds
Khimberly’s loved ones described her as a joyful child with many dreams for the future. A GoFundMe campaign set up in her memory says she loved music, volleyball, walking her dogs, and spending time with family. Her mother, Elma Chuquipa, told local media she is “devastated” and struggling with the pain of losing her daughter.
Outside the school, classmates and community members have left flowers, candles and tributes, and some students held a vigil and protest calling for justice and stronger protections against bullying.
Khimberly’s uncle, Guy Gazit, said the tragedy should serve as a warning to parents and schools alike about the dangers of unchecked bullying. “This should not happen to anyone’s child,” he told reporters.
School District Response
In a written statement, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) said it was “deeply saddened” by the student’s death and extended condolences to her family, friends, and the broader school community. The district said it is cooperating with law enforcement and has made counseling and support resources available to students and staff.
District officials did not comment further on the specific circumstances of the incident, citing privacy concerns for the students involved.
Broader Concern Over Bullying
The incident underscores ongoing concerns nationwide about bullying in schools and its potential to escalate into serious physical harm. Advocates say educators and administrators must prioritize prevention and intervention strategies to protect vulnerable students.
