El Monte, California — A 15-year-old Rosemead High School football standout with dreams of playing in the NFL was stabbed to death during a broad daylight brawl near an elementary school. Aziel Zacapala, known as “AZ,” was one of three people stabbed on July 10, 2026, and the only one who did not survive.

The incident occurred around 1 p.m. on Fern Street outside Potrero School. Two other victims, a 16-year-old and a young man, were hospitalized with stab wounds and are expected to recover. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and El Monte Police are investigating, but no arrests have been announced as homicide detectives search for the perpetrator(s).

Family members remember Aziel as a promising student-athlete excited about his future in football. A GoFundMe has been established to support funeral expenses. Vigils and tributes continue as the community mourns the loss of a bright young life.

Sources: KTLA