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12-Year-Old Dies Defending Sister; Students Demand Justice

2/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Khimberly Zavaleta, a 12-year-old student at Reseda High School, died after being struck in the head by a metal water bottle.
The incident occurred as she tried to protect her sister from a bully.
Khimberly suffered a brain hemorrhage and underwent emergency surgery.
Students demonstrated for justice for Khimberly.
The Los Angeles Unified School District extended condolences to her family and the school community.

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Story summary

Khimberly Zavaleta, a 12-year-old student at Reseda High School, died after being struck in the head by a metal water bottle.
The incident occurred as she tried to protect her sister from a bully.
Khimberly suffered a brain hemorrhage and underwent emergency surgery.
Students demonstrated for justice for Khimberly.
The Los Angeles Unified School District extended condolences to her family and the school community.