12-Year-Old California Girl Dies After Bully Throws Water Bottle

Victim's family says she suffered brain hemorrhage after attack at school

Mar. 3, 2026 at 6:15am

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A 12-year-old student at Reseda High School in Los Angeles has died after being struck in the head by a metal water bottle thrown by another student, according to the victim's family. The incident occurred 10 days prior, and the girl was initially sent home from the emergency room before collapsing days later and succumbing to a brain hemorrhage. Police are investigating the death as a homicide.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the devastating consequences of bullying in schools and the urgent need for better prevention and intervention measures to protect vulnerable students. The death of a young person due to a seemingly minor act of violence has shaken the local community and raised questions about school safety policies.

The details

According to the victim's mother, Elma Chuquipa, her daughter Khimberly was attacked by another 12-year-old girl who threw a metal water bottle at her in a school hallway. Khimberly was initially taken to the emergency room for her injuries but was sent home. Days later, she collapsed and was rushed back to the hospital, where she died from a brain hemorrhage.

  • The incident occurred 10 days ago at Reseda High School.
  • Khimberly was taken to the emergency room immediately after the attack.
  • Khimberly collapsed and was hospitalized several days after the initial incident.
  • Khimberly passed away at the hospital.

The players

Khimberly

A 12-year-old student at Reseda High School who died after being struck in the head by a water bottle thrown by another student.

Elma Chuquipa

Khimberly's mother, who spoke out about the incident that led to her daughter's death.

Los Angeles Police Department

The law enforcement agency investigating Khimberly's death as a homicide.

Los Angeles Unified School District

The school district that oversees Reseda High School, where the incident occurred.

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What they’re saying

“As the baby of our family, she brought a special light and joy into our lives. She loved her family, music, volleyball, walks with her two beloved dogs, and had many dreams for the future. Tragically, Khimberly's life was cut short following a bullying incident at school.”

— Elma Chuquipa, Khimberly's mother

“The Los Angeles Unified School District is deeply saddened by the death of a Reseda High School student. Our thoughts and condolences are with the student's family, friends, and the entire school community. Out of respect for the family and to protect confidentiality, we cannot share details. The District remains committed to providing support to students, staff, and families affected by this loss, including counseling services and additional resources on campus.”

— LAUSD Spokesperson

What’s next

The Los Angeles Police Department is continuing its investigation into Khimberly's death, which is being treated as a homicide. The school district has also pledged to provide support and resources to the Reseda High School community affected by this tragedy.

The takeaway

This heartbreaking incident underscores the urgent need for schools to prioritize student safety and implement robust anti-bullying programs to prevent such senseless acts of violence. The loss of a young life due to an act of bullying is a tragic reminder that more must be done to protect vulnerable students and foster a culture of kindness and respect in our schools.