The LAPD has stated that there is still no evidence linking alleged bullying to the tragic death of a high school student in Los Angeles. This follows a violent classroom altercation that occurred just before he fell from a fourth-floor railing, despite claims from his family and video footage showing the incident.
Xavier Nungaray-Martinez, a 17-year-old, passed away on September 30 at Benjamin Franklin High School in Highland Park. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner later classified his death as a suicide, noting multiple blunt force injuries on his head and torso.
While the investigation continues, detectives are working to gather more information about the moments leading up to Nungaray-Martinez’s fatal fall.
According to the LAPD, “At this preliminary stage of the investigation, detectives have not identified evidence establishing a connection between allegations of bullying and the student’s death.”
The LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division is looking into bullying reports as a potential factor, while they await the final autopsy results. They emphasize that their preliminary findings should not be seen as definitive.
Video footage from inside the classroom offers a disturbing look at what transpired before the fall. It shows Nungaray-Martinez being confronted and repeatedly punched by another student, with an elderly teacher attempting to intervene. The confrontation escalates, and the other student is seen taunting, “Run, n—a, run.”
Nungaray-Martinez manages to get up and rushes out into the hallway, followed by his classmate. Shortly after, he goes over the railing.
His stepmother reported that bullying was a constant issue for him. She mentioned to a local news outlet that he often felt scared to report the incidents, fearing he might be punished rather than the bullies.
Despite his family’s concerns, investigators have not yet linked the bullying claims to his death.
Following the incident, the school was placed under lockdown, and a vigil was held the next day, with community members leaving candles and flowers in remembrance. Benjamin Franklin High School reopened shortly afterward, a decision that sparked some backlash, although additional mental health resources were provided for students.
Netza Ortiz, a public information officer with the Los Angeles School Police Department, encouraged families to check in on their children. “It’s important for families to connect with their kids and remind them that seeking support is perfectly okay,” Ortiz advised.
