13-Year-Old Girl Fatally Stabbed by 10-Year-Old Boy in Texas

The child suspect turned himself in, claiming self-defense, but the victim's mother disputes this narrative.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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A 13-year-old girl named Riley Dearmas was fatally stabbed by a 10-year-old boy during a large fight that broke out in a Houston, Texas apartment complex. The boy turned himself in to police and claimed he acted in self-defense, but Riley's mother disputes this, saying her daughter was not a violent person and did not deserve to die. The incident is under investigation by the Houston Police Department.

Why it matters

This tragic incident raises questions about youth violence, self-defense claims involving minors, and the need for better conflict resolution and support systems for young people. The death of a 13-year-old girl has deeply impacted the local community.

The details

According to police, the fatal stabbing occurred on February 4 as part of a large fight that broke out in a Houston apartment complex. The 10-year-old suspect turned himself in and told police he stabbed Riley in self-defense, but Riley's mother disputes this, saying her daughter was not violent. Riley was a student at Dean Middle School, and the school is providing counseling support to students and families affected by the tragedy.

  • The stabbing incident occurred on Wednesday, February 4.
  • Riley's memorial event was held on Saturday, February 8.

The players

Riley Dearmas

A 13-year-old girl who was fatally stabbed during the incident.

10-year-old boy

The child suspect who turned himself in and claimed he stabbed Riley in self-defense.

Ashley DeArmas

Riley's mother, who disputes the self-defense claim and describes her daughter as a 'gentle and loving soul'.

Houston Police Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the fatal stabbing.

Dean Middle School

The school Riley attended, which is providing counseling support to students and families.

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What they’re saying

“There was no self-defense. My daughter was attacked. She was not a violent person. She would never harm anyone intentionally.”

— Ashley DeArmas, Riley's mother

“She did not deserve it. She did not deserve to die.”

— Ashley DeArmas, Riley's mother

What’s next

The Harris County District Attorney's Office will make a charging decision regarding the 10-year-old suspect.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for better conflict resolution and support systems for young people to prevent such senseless acts of violence. The local community is deeply saddened by the loss of a 13-year-old girl and is seeking answers and justice.