On August 19, 2025, a stabbing incident occurred at Maryvale High School in Phoenix, Arizona, resulting in the death of 16-year-old student Michael Montoya II. The altercation took place inside a classroom and involved a fight between two male students. Montoya was stabbed multiple times with a folding pocketknife and was pronounced dead after being hospitalized. Another student sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was also taken to the hospital. The suspect, identified as 16-year-old Chris Aguilar, was taken into custody and is being charged as an adult with second-degree murder, with the possibility of facing additional charges. The school was placed on lockdown following the incident, and an investigation is ongoing. Maryvale High School and Phoenix city officials have responded by offering resources and support to students and families affected by the tragedy. A vigil was held on August 23 to honor Montoya, drawing hundreds of community members. The incident has raised concerns about campus safety and communication protocols among parents and local authorities.
The vigil was held days after the victim, Michael Montoya II, was stabbed and killed at Maryvale High School. The suspect in the case is being charged as an adult. https://t.co/GOzjPAzdJn
A 17-year-old faces a murder charge in the death of a 16-year-old killed at a house party earlier this month, the 8 News Now Investigators have learned. https://t.co/PjH8mLDWH7
An emotional vigil was held Friday night at Maryvale High School for 16-year-old Michael Montoya, who died after being stabbed multiple times on campus earlier this week. Hundreds of people gathered with candles, balloons and flowers outside the school to mourn the teenager. https://t.co/uRVj4Yka1l