NewsNBC Los Angeles (KNBC) – LocalJune 30, 2026Los Angeles
Man Sentenced to 24 Years to Life for 2023 Stabbing Death of El Sereno Student
David Anthony Zapata was sentenced to 24 years to life in prison for the 2023 murder of 17-year-old Xavier Chavarin and a separate stabbing attack on another man in Los Angeles.
Read the full story at NBC Los Angeles (KNBC) – LocalWhy It Matters
The sentencing concludes a criminal case involving the death of a high school student and a subsequent violent attack in the El Sereno community.
Key Facts
- David Anthony Zapata was sentenced to 24 years to life in state prison.
- Zapata pleaded no contest to second-degree murder for the death of Xavier Chavarin.
- The murder occurred on March 3, 2023, in El Sereno.
- Xavier Chavarin was a 17-year-old senior at Woodrow Wilson High School.
- Zapata also stabbed a second victim, Daniel Villalobos, in Los Angeles hours after the murder.
- Zapata was arrested following an hours-long standoff at his home in Alhambra.
- The attacks were described by police as spontaneous and without prior confrontation.
Who's Mentioned
personRyan Rabbett“LAPD Lieutenant who commented on the attacks.”locationWoodrow Wilson High School“The school attended by the victim.”personDaniel Villalobos“The second victim of the stabbing attacks.”locationAlhambra“The location of the suspect's home and arrest.”organizationLA County DA’s Office“Confirmed the sentencing details.”personXavier Chavarin“The 17-year-old victim of the stabbing.”locationEl Sereno“The community where the murder occurred.”personDavid Anthony Zapata“The defendant sentenced for murder and assault.”