12-Year-Old Dies After Alleged Bullying Incident at School

Khimberly Zavaleta passed away 10 days after being struck in the head by a metal water bottle.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Khimberly Zavaleta, a 12-year-old student at Reseda Charter High School in California, died on February 25, 2026, 10 days after she was allegedly struck in the head by a metal water bottle thrown by a bully. The incident occurred on February 17 when Khimberly reportedly stepped in to defend her sister against the bully. Khimberly's family took her to the emergency room, but she later suffered a 'catastrophic medical emergency' and was placed in a medically induced coma at UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, where she ultimately died from her injuries.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing issue of bullying in schools and the potential for serious harm, even from seemingly innocuous objects like water bottles. It raises questions about school safety, the need for better anti-bullying policies and interventions, and the importance of providing adequate medical care and support for victims of bullying.

The details

According to reports, the incident occurred on February 17 when Khimberly Zavaleta, a 12-year-old sixth grader, stepped in to defend her sister against a bully at Reseda Charter High School. The bully allegedly threw a metal water bottle that struck Khimberly in the head. Khimberly's family took her to the emergency room due to a severe headache, but she was sent home. Days later, Khimberly suffered a 'catastrophic medical emergency' and was placed in a medically induced coma at UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, where she underwent complex surgery. Tragically, Khimberly died from her injuries on February 25, 2026.

  • The incident occurred on February 17, 2026.
  • Khimberly was taken to the emergency room on February 17, 2026.
  • Khimberly suffered a 'catastrophic medical emergency' in the days following the incident.
  • Khimberly was placed in a medically induced coma and underwent surgery at UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital.
  • Khimberly passed away on February 25, 2026.

The players

Khimberly Zavaleta

A 12-year-old sixth grader at Reseda Charter High School who died after being struck in the head by a metal water bottle allegedly thrown by a bully.

Reseda Charter High School

The school where the alleged bullying incident occurred.

Los Angeles Police Department

The law enforcement agency that opened a homicide investigation into Khimberly's death.

UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital

The hospital where Khimberly was treated and underwent complex surgery after the incident.

Dayari Diaz

Khimberly's friend who spoke to KTLA news about the incident and the desire for justice.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Los Angeles Police Department's Robbery-Homicide Division is continuing its investigation into Khimberly's death, but has declined to release further details due to the sensitive nature of the case and the involvement of juveniles.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for schools to implement robust anti-bullying policies, provide adequate support and resources for students, and ensure that any incidents of violence or harm are swiftly and thoroughly addressed to prevent further tragedies. The loss of a young life is devastating, and this case highlights the devastating consequences that bullying can have.