Trial to Begin in Lawsuit Over Fatal LAPD Shooting of 14-Year-Old

Family seeks justice after 2021 incident that sparked outrage and calls for police reform.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:40am

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A wrongful-death lawsuit filed against the Los Angeles Police Department is set to go to trial over an officer's fatal shooting of a 14-year-old girl in a Burlington store in 2021. The incident sparked outrage and renewed calls for police reform in the city.

Why it matters

The case has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over police use of force, particularly against young people and in retail settings. The outcome could have significant implications for LAPD policies and public trust in law enforcement.

The details

In December 2021, LAPD officers responding to a report of an assault shot and killed Valentina Orellana-Peralta, a 14-year-old girl, inside a Burlington store. Police say the intended target was a suspect who was assaulting another person, but the bullet passed through a wall and struck Valentina, who was in a nearby dressing room. Her family has filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against the LAPD, alleging negligence and excessive force.

  • The fatal shooting occurred on December 23, 2021.
  • The wrongful-death lawsuit was filed in early 2022.
  • The trial is set to begin on April 15, 2026.

The players

Valentina Orellana-Peralta

A 14-year-old girl who was fatally shot by an LAPD officer inside a Burlington store in 2021.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD)

The law enforcement agency responsible for the fatal shooting of Valentina Orellana-Peralta, now facing a wrongful-death lawsuit.

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What they’re saying

“Valentina's life mattered. She should be alive today, and we will fight for justice in her name.”

— Soledad Peralta, Valentina's mother

“This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for comprehensive police reform and de-escalation training to prevent such senseless loss of life.”

— Jaime Gutierrez, Civil rights attorney

What’s next

The trial is expected to last several weeks, with the family of Valentina Orellana-Peralta seeking damages and policy changes within the LAPD.

The takeaway

The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for police accountability and the use of force, especially in retail settings where encounters with the public can quickly escalate. The case has become a rallying cry for police reform advocates in Los Angeles and beyond.