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NewsTelemundo 52 — LocalJune 30, 2026Los Angeles

Man Sentenced to Life for 2023 Stabbing Death in El Sereno

David Anthony Zapata was sentenced to 24 years to life in prison after pleading guilty to the 2023 murder of a 17-year-old student and the attempted murder of another man in El Sereno. The attacks were described by authorities as random and unprovoked.

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Why It Matters

The sentencing concludes a criminal case involving two violent attacks in the El Sereno community that occurred on March 3, 2023.

Key Facts

  • David Anthony Zapata was sentenced to 24 years to life in state prison.
  • Zapata pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and attempted murder on May 6.
  • The crimes occurred on March 3, 2023.
  • The murder victim was 17-year-old Xavier Chavarin.
  • The attempted murder victim was Daniel Villalobos.
  • The attacks took place at the 4500 and 5400 blocks of Valley Boulevard in El Sereno.
  • Zapata was arrested following a standoff at his home in Alhambra.
  • Authorities described the attacks as random and unprovoked.

Who's Mentioned

personRyan Rabbett“LAPD Lieutenant who investigated the case.”locationWoodrow Wilson High School“The school attended by the deceased victim.”personDaniel Villalobos“The victim of the attempted murder.”personGermán Hurtado“LAPD Commander who oversaw the arrest.”organizationLos Angeles County District Attorney's Office“The office that prosecuted the case.”location5400 Valley Boulevard“Location of the second stabbing.”personXavier Chavarin“The 17-year-old victim who was killed.”personDavid Anthony Zapata“The defendant sentenced for murder and attempted murder.”personGeorge Gascón“Former District Attorney who announced the charges.”location4500 Valley Boulevard“Location of the first stabbing.”