Reseda 12-Year-Old Khimberly Zavaleta Dies After Bullying Incident; GoFundMe Raises Over $73K

 The Reseda, California community is mourning the tragic loss of 12-year-old Khimberly Chuquipa Zavaleta, a student at Reseda Charter High School, who died following a school bullying incident that left her critically injured. Khimberly was struck in the head with a metal water bottle while attempting to defend her sister in a school hallway, suffering a brain hemorrhage that required emergency intervention. Despite being treated at an emergency room, her condition worsened, leading to emergency brain surgery at UCLA Children’s Hospital. She tragically passed away on February 25 at 3:30 a.m., leaving family, friends, and classmates in shock over the sudden and senseless loss.

Family and friends remember Khimberly as a vibrant, compassionate young girl, describing her as the “baby of our family.” She had a love for music, volleyball, and spending time walking her two dogs, with dreams and aspirations that were cruelly cut short. The devastating circumstances of her death have ignited widespread grief in the community and a renewed focus on the impact of bullying on students’ safety and mental health. Parents and peers alike are grappling with the emotional toll of seeing such a young life lost in what should have been a safe school environment.

In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign titled “Help Khimberly’s Family After Deadly School Bullying” was created by family friend Guy Gazit. The fundraiser aims to cover funeral and burial costs, ongoing medical expenses, and emergency care bills associated with Khimberly’s treatment. As of this week, the campaign has raised over $73,000, reflecting an outpouring of support from neighbors, local residents, and compassionate strangers determined to help the family during an unimaginable period of grief.

The campaign page emphasizes the larger message behind donations: “Her life mattered and bullying must be stopped.” Organizers stress that every contribution not only provides financial assistance but also signals community solidarity and the urgent need to prevent similar incidents in the future. Social media has amplified Khimberly’s story, with many using the platform to share condolences, advocate for anti-bullying measures, and call for increased awareness of student safety.

Local authorities, including the Los Angeles Police Department, have opened a homicide investigation into the incident, signaling the seriousness with which law enforcement is treating the case. Investigators are working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the attack and whether school policies or lapses in supervision contributed to the tragedy. The investigation remains active, with authorities urging witnesses to come forward and provide any information that could aid in bringing justice for Khimberly.

The incident has prompted Reseda Charter High School students, parents, and staff to call for stronger anti-bullying initiatives, including clearer reporting channels, better supervision, and expanded counseling resources. Educators and experts note that bullying can escalate rapidly and have lifelong consequences, making early intervention and supportive school environments essential for student safety and well-being. Khimberly’s story serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences when harassment is allowed to persist unchecked.

Mental health advocates are emphasizing the importance of community support for grieving families and peers affected by such tragedies. Counseling services, peer support groups, and open conversations about the dangers of bullying are being encouraged to help students process trauma and prevent further harm. Schools are urged to actively involve families, teachers, and counselors in creating safe, inclusive spaces where students can feel protected and valued.

Khimberly Chuquipa Zavaleta’s untimely death has left a deep void in Reseda, but the community’s response demonstrates resilience, compassion, and a commitment to change. Through fundraising, awareness campaigns, and advocacy for stronger anti-bullying measures, residents hope to honor Khimberly’s life and ensure that her story becomes a catalyst for safer, more supportive environments for all students. Her family continues to grieve while inspiring a collective movement to prevent future tragedies in schools across the region.