LAPD Provides Update on Franklin High School Death Investigation NR26209al

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division, Central Bureau Section, is investigating the death of a 17-year-old male student following an incident at Benjamin Franklin High School on September 30, 2026. The Department extends its deepest condolences to the student’s family, friends, classmates, and all those affected throughout the school community during this difficult time.

The Department is aware of reports on social media and in the news alleging that bullying may have contributed to the student’s death. Detectives are taking these allegations seriously and are thoroughly investigating all information and circumstances surrounding this incident. At this preliminary stage of the investigation, detectives have not identified evidence establishing a connection between allegations of bullying and the student’s death. However, the investigation remains active and ongoing, and this preliminary assessment should not be interpreted as a final determination of the circumstances surrounding his death.

Detectives continue to examine additional factors that may be relevant to understanding the events leading up to the student’s death and are awaiting the final autopsy report from the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner.

The Department recognizes the concerns expressed by the student’s family, classmates, and the broader community and remains committed to conducting a thorough, objective, and impartial investigation. Additional information will be released when it becomes available and can be shared without compromising the integrity of the investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Detective L. Garcia or Detective J. Sanchez, Robbery-Homicide Division, Central Bureau Section, at 213-996-4109. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may contact L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477) or submit a tip through www.lacrimestoppers.org. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through the “P3 Tips” mobile application by selecting L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as the local program