12-Year-Old Khimberly Zavaleta Dies After Protecting Sister From Bully

Homicide investigation launched after alleged attack at Reseda High School

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Khimberly Zavaleta, a 12-year-old student at Reseda High School in Los Angeles, tragically passed away after allegedly being struck in the head by a metal water bottle while trying to protect her sister from a bully. The incident has prompted a homicide investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department.

Why it matters

This heartbreaking case highlights the serious consequences of bullying and the urgent need for schools to address violence and protect student safety. Khimberly's selfless act to defend her sister has resonated with the community and sparked calls for justice and improved anti-bullying measures.

The details

According to Khimberly's family, she stepped in to protect her sister during an alleged bullying incident when another student threw a metal water bottle that struck Khimberly in the head in a school hallway in mid-February. Khimberly was taken to the emergency room for treatment but later collapsed at home and was rushed to UCLA Children's Hospital, where doctors found she was suffering from a brain hemorrhage. She underwent emergency surgery but tragically passed away on February 25th.

  • In mid-February, the alleged bullying incident occurred at Reseda High School.
  • Khimberly was taken to the emergency room for treatment on the same day.
  • Days later, Khimberly collapsed at home and was rushed to UCLA Children's Hospital.
  • Khimberly underwent emergency surgery but died in the early hours of February 25th.

The players

Khimberly Zavaleta

A 12-year-old student at Reseda High School in Los Angeles who tragically passed away after allegedly being struck in the head by a metal water bottle while trying to protect her sister from a bully.

Elma Chuquipa

Khimberly's mother, who is devastated by the loss of her daughter.

Reseda High School

The school where the alleged bullying incident occurred that led to Khimberly's death.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD)

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

Los Angeles Unified School District

The school district that Reseda High School is a part of, which has expressed condolences and stated it is cooperating with the police investigation.

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What they’re saying

“I'm devastated. I'm full of pain, thinking about how I will never see my daughter again.”

— Elma Chuquipa, Khimberly's mother (NBC Los Angeles)

“We're all sad. Because she was the one who gave all the energy to us, because she was so happy. She was always happy. She was always smiling.”

— Dayari Diaz, Khimberly's friend and fellow student (NBC Los Angeles)

“We want justice for her. The school is not doing anything.”

— Dayari Diaz, Khimberly's friend and fellow student (NBC Los Angeles)

What’s next

The Los Angeles Police Department is continuing its homicide investigation into the incident that led to Khimberly's death. The Los Angeles Unified School District has stated it is cooperating fully with the police investigation and providing support and counseling services to the school community.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the urgent need for schools to prioritize student safety and implement robust anti-bullying measures to prevent such devastating outcomes. Khimberly's selfless act to protect her sister has inspired the community to demand justice and call for systemic changes to address the pervasive issue of bullying in schools.