A 10-year-old boy in Houston faces potential charges for fatally stabbing 13-year-old Riley DeArmas during a large fight at an apartment complex on Grow Lane. Texas prosecutors will decide on charges after police complete their investigation, as 10 is the state’s minimum age for criminal responsibility. The boy claims self-defense amid a brawl involving 20-30 people.
Incident Details
The altercation reportedly stemmed from a school dispute between teen groups. Police arrived to find Riley with a single stab wound; she died at a hospital. The boy was detained, questioned, and released pending review by the Harris County DA.
Self-Defense Claim
The boy alleges Riley was part of an assaulting group, justifying his actions. Riley’s family, including mother Ashley DeArmas, denies this, insisting she was attacked and was non-violent. DA’s office awaits full evidence before deciding.
Legal Context
Texas self-defense law (Penal Code §9.31) allows force if reasonably believed immediately necessary against unlawful force, proportional to the threat, without provocation or crime involvement. For juveniles at age 10, cases go to juvenile court unless certified otherwise. A March hearing isn’t set yet; Riley’s 14th birthday was approaching.
