Tragic Death of California Girl Linked to Undetected Medical Condition
A 12-year-old girl from California, who suffered a head injury during an alleged bullying incident in February, was found to have a medical condition that contributed to her untimely death, according to the coroner’s report.
Coroner’s Findings Reveal Natural Causes
The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office stated that Kimberly Zabaleta died from natural causes attributed to “cerebellar arteriovenous malformation due to spontaneous rupture.” This condition was not initially identified prior to the incident.
Details Surrounding the Incident
On February 17, Kimberly’s family reported that she was injured while attempting to defend her sister during a bullying episode at Reseda High School. A classmate allegedly struck her in the head with a metal water bottle, resulting in a brain injury. She remained in a coma for several days following surgery but ultimately succumbed to her injuries.
Timeline Leading to Hospitalization
In a press release, the coroner’s office indicated that Kimberly was initially taken to the hospital on the day of the incident due to headaches. However, four days later, she returned to the hospital in distress and was diagnosed with an arteriovenous malformation (AVM), a condition characterized by tangles of blood vessels without capillaries.
Understanding Arteriovenous Malformations
According to medical experts, AVMs are rare congenital conditions often asymptomatic until they rupture. If a brain AVM breaks, it can lead to severe complications, including strokes or significant brain damage. Despite receiving extensive medical treatment, Kimberly passed away on February 25.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Actions
Following her death, the Los Angeles Police Department initiated a murder investigation, resulting in the arrest of the child involved in the incident. The department has not yet released details regarding the ongoing inquiry.
Family’s Response and Legal Action
Robert Glassman, an attorney representing Kimberly’s family, described the coroner’s findings as inadequate, emphasizing that Kimberly was a healthy and active child prior to the incident. “She suffered a fatal brain hemorrhage following the injury, and no report from the medical examiner alters these facts,” he stated. The family has filed a civil lawsuit against the Los Angeles Unified School District, alleging negligence and failure to protect the child during the distressing incident.
Call for Accountability
Glassman reiterated that while Kimberly had underlying health conditions, these do not absolve those responsible for her safety at school. “Her tragic death underscores the urgent need for accountability,” he asserted. “Kimberly was alive before this incident. We will continue to fight for justice for her family.”
