Khimberly Zavaleta Chuquipa, a 12-year-old 6th grader at Reseda High School (a LAUSD charter in Los Angeles), died on February 25, 2026, after brain surgery. Ten days earlier, on February 15, another student allegedly struck her in the head with a metal water bottle in a school hallway—described by family as a bullying incident.
Medical Timeline
- Post-Incident: Severe headaches prompted ER visits, but she was sent home.
- Collapse: Returned to hospital after brain hemorrhage; major blood vessels ruptured.
- Treatment: Rushed to UCLA Children’s Hospital, induced coma, emergency brain surgery.
- Outcome: Heart failed at 3:30 a.m. on Feb. 25 despite family prayers.
Family launched a GoFundMe, calling her the “baby of our family” who loved music, volleyball, dogs, and had big dreams.
Investigation and Response
- Police: LAPD treats it as homicide; details withheld.
- School/District: Memorial outside Reseda High. LAUSD offers counseling, cooperates with police, expresses condolences but cites confidentiality.
- Family Statements: Mother Elma: “Devastated… never see my daughter again.” Uncle Guy Gazit: “Cautionary tale… fear of every parent.”
No suspect details released; LAUSD/LAPD didn’t respond to media by Feb. 28. This tragedy spotlights school bullying risks and ER triage for head injuries in kids.
