CHULA VISTA, Calif. (KGTV) -- Police are searching for the suspects accused of stabbing a 15-year-old to death as he tried to defend his friend at a Chula Vista birthday party in late January.
According to police, the stabbing took place on January 31 on the 900 block of Maria Way in Chula Vista.
Police say an argument broke out between two teenagers. The argument later turned physical and, as the 15-year-old -- identified by friends as Devin Griffiths -- tried to help a friend being attacked by several men, he was stabbed in the upper body, according to police.
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Griffiths was taken to the hospital with critical injuries where he later died on February 16. According to police, he “passed away with his family at his side.”
Police say the suspect group is believed to consist of eight to 15 men and women between the ages of 17 and 20.
Investigators believe there is a likelihood witnesses used their cell phones to record the incident and are asking anyone with video to come forward.
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Anyone with information is asked to call Chula Vista Police at 619-691-5178 or the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at 888-580-8477.
The teen was a student at Helix Charter High School. The school Tuesday sent a letter to parents that read, in part: "It is with great sadness that we have to inform you that one of our 10th grade students has died. Our thoughts and sympathies are with their family and friends. We ask that you please respect and honor the family's privacy during this difficult time. "
The school also said student support is being made available.
A GoFundMe has been set up to help the family.
On Wednesday evening, classmates will hold a vigil in honor of Griffiths.
