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

Authorities investigating incident that led to the tragic death of middle school student Jada West.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 3:18am

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A 12-year-old girl in Villa Rica, Georgia died days after collapsing following a fight that broke out near her school bus stop. Police are reviewing evidence, including cellphone video of the incident, and are awaiting autopsy results to determine the cause of death.

Why it matters

The tragic death of Jada West has shaken the local community and raised concerns about school safety and youth violence. Authorities are working to understand the circumstances that led to this incident and determine if any charges will be filed.

The details

According to police, the fight broke out on Thursday afternoon between Jada West and another student from Mason Creek Middle School near an intersection close to Jada's home. Cellphone video shows the two girls yelling and taunting each other before exchanging punches, with Jada falling backwards and rolling over her head and neck. Jada was taken to the hospital but did not survive, passing away on Sunday.

  • The fight occurred on Thursday afternoon near Jada's school bus stop.
  • Jada was taken to the hospital following the incident.
  • Jada passed away on Sunday, several days after the fight.

The players

Jada West

A 12-year-old sixth grader at Mason Creek Middle School who died following a fight near her school bus stop.

Rashunda McClendon

Jada's mother, who posted a video on Facebook asking for prayers as her daughter fought for her life.

De'Quala McClendon

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

Sgt. Spencer Crawford

A police spokesman in Villa Rica, Georgia who is investigating the incident.

Dalia Racine

The Douglas County District Attorney whose office is aware of the police investigation into Jada's death.

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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

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

— Rashunda McClendon, Jada's mother

What’s next

Investigators are awaiting autopsy results and 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 highlights the need for greater awareness and intervention around youth violence, as well as the importance of providing support and resources to students and families affected by such traumatic events.