Family of Franklin High Student Calls for Security and Accountability After Fatal Fall

Family Demands Action After Franklin High Student's Death

The family of Xavier Nungaray-Martinez, a 17-year-old senior at Franklin High School, is calling for heightened campus security, the return of campus police, and an intensified effort to address school bullying following his death on September 30, 2026. Xavier died after falling from a fourth-floor corridor at his school, sparking concern and protest from family members and the broader school community.

Challenging the Medical Examiner’s Ruling

Xavier’s family is disputing the preliminary conclusion by the county medical examiner, which classified his death as a suicide. Speaking publicly for the first time since the tragedy, Xavier’s father, William Amaya, insisted, "He was not suicidal," countering official findings. The family noted they are still awaiting toxicology test results but do not believe Xavier used drugs or discussed them on campus.

Concerns Over Bullying and School Safety

Family members maintain that school bullying is a pressing problem at Franklin High and believe it may have played a significant role in Xavier’s death. The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating allegations that bullying contributed to the incident. Video evidence shows Xavier being struck multiple times by a classmate in a classroom shortly before his death. Another video captured moments later shows Xavier at the railing, with the same student rapidly approaching as Xavier leaps over the edge.

Calls for Increased Security and Campus Police

During a protest outside the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) headquarters, Xavier’s family—joined by several parents—urged district officials to bring back campus police and strengthen school security. "We’re trying to get our voices heard," said Stephanie Amaya, Xavier’s relative. She emphasized the family's intention to continue protesting and highlighted their main priorities: student protection, justice for Xavier, and the return of campus police.

In 2020, LAUSD voted to remove officers from campuses and reduced the school police budget by 35%. The debate over campus police was reignited after Xavier’s death, with some parents advocating for their return to deter violence. Others in the Franklin High community have focused on improving school counseling instead of restoring a police presence.

Family Advocates for Multiple Safety Measures

The family’s demands go beyond police presence. They propose increased surveillance, improved training for non-police security staff, enhanced internal campus communication, and upgraded safety features such as safer railings at Franklin High. A petition supporting these measures has been started by the family to encourage the district to act.

Community Response and Ongoing Debate

A vigil attended by hundreds was held for Xavier, reflecting the community's mourning and concern. Elizabeth Amaya, Xavier’s aunt, specifically questioned the suicide ruling, attributing his death directly to the classroom altercation. She and others believe the tragedy underscores broader issues of school bullying and the need for effective strategies to ensure student safety at LAUSD schools.

While the investigation into the tragic event continues, Xavier’s family and supporters remain committed to pushing for change at Franklin High and throughout the district.

Source: latimes.com.