Arrest made in killing of 12-year-old girl at Reseda High School
A juvenile has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection to the killing of a 12-year-old girl at Reseda High School in what appears to be an incident of bullying earlier this year.
The Feb. 17 incident, according to the victim’s mother, Elma Chuquipa, happened when another 12-year-old girl threw a metal water bottle at her daughter Khimberly’s head in a school hallway.
Witnesses to the fight said Khimberly had been trying to protect her older sister from bullies when she was struck in the head with the water bottle.
She was taken to the emergency room for her injuries and later sent home, the family said. Days later, she collapsed and was rushed back to the hospital with a brain hemorrhage, where she later died.
Following her death, a protest was held outside the school. Mourners left flowers and demanded justice for Khimberly.
Officials with the Los Angeles Police Department said the case was being investigated as a homicide. It remains unclear exactly when the arrest was made, but because the suspect is a juvenile, her identity will not be released by law enforcement.
Reseda High is a charter school that educates students in grades 6 through 12.
After Khimberly’s death, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles Unified School District issued a statement expressing condolences to the school community.
“The Los Angeles Unified School District is deeply saddened by the death of a Reseda High School student,” the statement read. “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. The District takes the safety and well-being of our students very seriously.”
District officials said they are cooperating with the investigation.
The victim’s family is suing the district, claiming they failed to investigate reports of bullying on campus, failed to supervise students and failed to implement safety measures.
