The “shattered” family of a 12-year-old girl who died after a bully threw a metal bottle at her head have expressed “endless gratitude” for the £112,000 raised in her honour.
Khimberly Zavaleta Chuquipa suffered a brain haemorrhage before falling into a coma following the incident at her school.
She died days later from her injuries.
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A GoFundMe page set up to help cover funeral costs and support her family has since raised nearly $150,000.
Although the fundraiser has not reached its goal of $200,000, the family have decided to shut it down.
Khimberly was described as a “bright, loving young girl” taken too soon.
The attack happened on 17 February during a confrontation at her school in Reseda.
Her family said she had stepped in to protect her younger sister when she was struck.
Video of the incident reportedly shows students pushing and arguing moments before the fatal blow.
“Saddened, distraught, grieving – yet we were privileged, honoured and humbled to have had her for a fleeting 12 years of her life..,” said Guy Gazit, the organiser of the GoFundMe.
“A short spell through which she illuminated out lives with the brightest of lights.”
He added: “We want to thank each and every one of you for whichever help you gave our family through the harshest times we are going through.
“We are closing down the GoFundMe page with nothing but awe and endless gratitude.
“Our promise to you and to Khimberly is to keep on pushing for change…”
The case has escalated, with police launching a homicide investigation.
The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that a child has been arrested on suspicion of murder.
The suspect has not been named due to their age.
Khimberly’s family has also filed a wrongful-death claim against the Los Angeles Unified School District.
In a statement obtained by CBS News, attorney Robert Glassman, of Panish Shea Ravipudi LLP, said: “This arrest is an important step toward accountability, but it does not change the bigger truth: this tragedy was entirely preventable.”
Online, people have expressed their sorrow at the horror incident.
“Wrapping you and your family in so much love as you experience this unimaginable loss of your precious, beautiful, brave Angel. My heart is breaking for you,” said Tina Leigh Cameron.
Samuel Ortiz added: “Words can’t express your pain as a parent losing a child so young. God has this angel in heaven. As having a young daughter myself it hurts so much. Also as being bullied all my life I’m sorry as a whole system we haven’t done more about this problem. Really sad.”
Ruth said: “I’m so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to your family. May God give you strength and comfort your broken hearts during this difficult time.”
Isabella Chen added: “I am so sorry you lost your beautiful angel.”
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