HOUSTON TEXAS, a 13-year-old girl died after being stabbed during a fight outside an apartment complex, with police investigating claims of self-defense made by a 10-year-old boy involved in the incident.
According to the Houston Police Department, the fatal stabbing occurred Wednesday night around 8 p.m. near the intersection of Grow Lane and Dow Road.
The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences identified the victim as Riley Dearmas, 13. Authorities said Dearmas was found with at least one stab wound and was transported to a hospital, where she later died, FOX26 reported.
Police said there was a large disturbance outside an apartment complex at the time of the incident, involving an estimated group of 20 to 30 people. Investigators allege Dearmas was part of that group, which had arrived at the apartment complex and began assaulting individuals inside.
Officers at the scene spoke with an adult woman and a 10-year-old boy. According to police, the boy told investigators that he stabbed Dearmas and turned himself in. Authorities stated that the boy claimed the stabbing occurred in self-defense during the altercation.
Michael George, the principal of Dean Middle School, confirmed in a letter to parents and guardians that Dearmas was a student at the school.
Following the incident, social media posts began circulating, with some users questioning the self-defense claim and demanding justice in the teen’s death.
One post read, “Thanks for sharing my post. We the family all appreciate your heartfelt condolences. Nothing but loving. Justice will be served.”
Another post stated, “Thank you for reposting. My niece definitely was not stabbed in self defense. We demand justice.”
A separate comment added, “These kids need to stop watching baddies and have more regulation on their phones.”
Officials noted that 10 years old is the minimum age for criminal responsibility in Texas. Houston police said the child was detained Wednesday night but later released pending further investigation.
Since then, a video has surfaced that appears to show the boy running up to Dearmas, stabbing her, and then dropping the knife as he runs away. Investigators said they are continuing to interview witnesses and review surveillance footage.
All findings will be forwarded to the Harris County District Attorney’s Office for review and a determination on potential charges. The investigation remains ongoing.
