Crime in Los Angeles

The LAPD’s Robbery‑Homicide Division is investigating the death of 12‑year‑old Khimberly Zavaleta as a homicide after her family says she was struck in a hallway at Reseda High School by a metal water bottle during an alleged bullying incident in which she intervened to protect her sister. Doctors initially evaluated and released her before her condition worsened; she later arrived at an ER without vitals, underwent emergency brain surgery and was declared brain‑dead, and LAUSD says it is cooperating with police and providing on‑campus support while officials withhold further details because juveniles are involved.