Reseda, California 12-Year-Old Girl Dies After School Fight; Mother Says Daughter Was Protecting Sister Before Suffering Fatal Brain Injury

RESEDA, CALIFORNIA — A 12-year-old girl has died after a school fight in Reseda, and her mother is now speaking publicly, saying her daughter was trying to protect her older sister from a group of bullies when the incident occurred.

According to the family, the girl — identified as Khimberly Zavaleta — was struck in the head with a water bottle during the altercation. Her mother says the blow led to a serious brain injury. Khimberly was later hospitalized and died on Wednesday.

Mother Says Daughter Was Defending Her Sister

In an emotional account, Khimberly’s mother said her daughter stepped in because she believed her older sister was being targeted by a group of students. What began as a confrontation escalated, ultimately resulting in the injury that proved fatal.

The family maintains that Khimberly was not looking for trouble but was attempting to shield her sibling from harm.

Head Injury Led to Brain Trauma

Family members report that after being hit in the head, Khimberly’s condition worsened. She later suffered a brain injury that required hospitalization. Despite medical efforts, she did not survive.

The exact sequence of events surrounding the fight and how the injury progressed is expected to be part of an ongoing investigation.

Community Seeking Answers

The death of a 12-year-old following a school altercation has raised serious concerns about student safety and bullying. Community members are calling for a full review of what led up to the fight and how the situation was handled.

As the investigation continues, loved ones are remembering Khimberly as a young girl who acted out of loyalty to her family.

The tragedy has left many questioning how a school dispute escalated to such devastating consequences.

What steps should schools take to prevent fights from turning deadly? Share your thoughts at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.