Las Vegas high school student beaten to death by 10 classmates between 13 and 17, police say

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A 17-year-old student from a high school in Las Vegas tragically lost his life following a severe beating by ten of his schoolmates, ranging in age from 13 to 17. The incident, a result of a dispute over a stolen pair of headphones and a vape pen, occurred in an alley near the school after classes at Rancho High School had concluded.

Lieutenant Jason Johansson of the Las Vegas Police Homicide Unit shared that the victim, Jonathan Lewis Jr., was not initially meant to be part of the altercation. He accompanied a friend to the scene to confront the individuals responsible for stealing the friend’s belongings.

This brutal assault, which took place on November 1, was recorded and circulated extensively on social media. Johansson described the footage, in which Lewis is seen being swarmed and viciously attacked by the group, as profoundly lacking in humanity.

Authorities have since arrested eight of the assailants, all minors, on suspicion of murder. Their identities remain undisclosed due to their age. Efforts to identify and apprehend the remaining two suspects are ongoing, with the police seeking public assistance.

A makeshift memorial was set up at the scene of the crime, and Rancho High School’s principal, Darlin Delgado, has assured the availability of support and resources for those affected by this tragedy.

Scott Coffee, a seasoned deputy public defender, commented on the rarity of such a case involving multiple young co-defendants facing murder charges. He raised questions about the intent and the varying levels of responsibility among the attackers.

The legal process is underway to determine whether four of the accused, aged 16 or older, will be tried as adults. Similar considerations will be made for those under 16. Coffee emphasized that while the charges are currently the same, the outcomes for each defendant might differ based on their individual roles and intentions.

Following the attack, a bystander discovered the severely injured Lewis and transported him back to the school, where emergency services were contacted. Lewis succumbed to his injuries, including significant head trauma, a week later. The coroner ruled his death a homicide.

Jonathan Lewis Sr., the victim’s father, did not comment on the incident but expressed his grief and the loving nature of his son on a fundraising page set up for funeral and medical costs.

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More about Las Vegas Student Homicide

• Las Vegas Student Fatal Beating
• Rancho High School Incident
• Juvenile Violence in Las Vegas
• Legal Proceedings in Student Homicide Case
• Community Response to Las Vegas Tragedy
• Fundraising for Victim’s Family