Las Vegas, NV (KXNT) – 8 teenagers have been arrested in connection with the beating death of a 17-year-old student near Rancho High School.
The beating was back on November 1st, with Metro saying it stemmed over some ear buds and a vape pen. Investigators said that Jonathan Lewis was defending a friend when a group attacked Lewis, knocking him to the ground, then kicking him to the point of unconsciousness.
Metro says a bystander discovered Lewis and carried his body back to school.
Lewis’ father said that the boy died on November 7th of complications from blunt force trauma injuries.
A video of the incident has been circulating around social media, but Metro says they waited to make the arrests until they were absolutely sure that the correct people were taken into custody.
Investigators say those arrested ranged in age from 13 to 17. In Nevada, if a 16 or 17-year-old is charged with murder, the case is automatically moved to the adult system. Judges can certify children over 14 as adults for any felony offense, including murder, though the process is not automatic.
Metro says they’re seeking two others in the beating, and are asking anyone who has more information to contact their Homicide Division at 702-828-3521 or by email at homicide@lvmpd.com. You can stay anonymous by using Crime Stoppers (702-385-5555, www.crimestopperofnv.com).