12-Year-Old Georgia Girl Dies After Fight at School Bus Stop

Authorities are investigating the incident and reviewing cellphone video of the altercation.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 8:31pm

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A 12-year-old girl in suburban Atlanta has died days after collapsing in the street following a fistfight near her school bus stop. Police are investigating the incident, including reviewing cellphone video of the fight, and are awaiting autopsy results before deciding whether to bring charges.

Why it matters

The tragic death of a young student has shaken the local community and raised concerns about safety and violence near school bus stops. Authorities are working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident and whether any charges are warranted.

The details

The fight broke out on Thursday afternoon between Jada West, a sixth-grader at Mason Creek Middle School, and another student near an intersection close to Jada's home. Cellphone video shows the two girls yelling and taunting each other before throwing punches. Jada is seen falling backward, rolling over her head and neck. She then got up and appeared to walk away, but did not make it home. Police were called about a juvenile in cardiac arrest and found Jada in the street, where paramedics were performing CPR. She was taken to the hospital but died on Sunday.

  • The fight occurred on Thursday afternoon near Jada's school bus stop.
  • Jada collapsed in the street and was found in cardiac arrest later that day.
  • Jada was taken to the hospital and died on Sunday.

The players

Jada West

A 12-year-old sixth-grade student at Mason Creek Middle School who died after a fight at her school bus stop.

Rashunda McClendon

Jada's mother, who posted a video on Facebook asking people to pray for her daughter while she was fighting for her life.

De'Quala McClendon

Jada's aunt, who announced on Facebook that her niece had died.

Sgt. Spencer Crawford

A police spokesman who said authorities are reviewing evidence, including cellphone video, and awaiting autopsy results before deciding on potential charges.

Douglas County School System

The school district that described Jada as an "upbeat, kind, and vibrant student" and made counselors available to students and staff.

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What they’re saying

“Now you got your spiritual crown, it hurts so so bad but I know you are ok.”

— De'Quala McClendon, Jada's aunt (Facebook)

“Please pray for my baby. She's fighting for her life.”

— Rashunda McClendon, Jada's mother (Facebook)

What’s next

Authorities plan to meet with prosecutors this week to determine if any charges will be filed in relation to Jada's death.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has shaken the local community and raised concerns about safety and violence near school bus stops. Authorities are working to fully understand the circumstances and determine if any charges are warranted, while the school district has made counseling available to support students and staff during this difficult time.