Nationwide — Khimberly, a 12-year-old high school student from Los Angeles, California, has sadly died days after a classmate threw a metal water bottle directly at her head while at school. Police are now investigating her death as a homicide.
Khimberly, a student at Reseda High School, was struck in a hallway at the school by another 12-year-old student who threw a metal water bottle directly at her head, her mother, Elma Chuquipa, told KTLA.
Khimberly was taken to the emergency room right after the assault. Doctors treated her injuries and sent her home, and her family believed she would recover.
A few days later, Khimberly suddenly collapsed at home. She was rushed back to the hospital, where doctors discovered a brain hemorrhage. Despite medical efforts, she died from her injuries.
The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed it is investigating the case as a homicide. Authorities have not released further details about the ongoing investigation.
Community members held a vigil outside Reseda High, leaving flowers and calling for justice. Khimberly’s family also launched a GoFundMe to cover medical and funeral costs. It has raised more than $106,000.
Her family described Khimberly as a joyful child who loved music, volleyball, and walking her two dogs. “As the baby of our family, she brought a special light and joy into our lives,” they wrote, adding that Khimberly “had many dreams for the future. Tragically, Khimberly’s life was cut short following a bullying incident at school.”
In a statement, the Los Angeles Unified School District said it is deeply saddened by the student’s death. The district expressed condolences and said it is cooperating with law enforcement while offering counseling and support services to students and staff.