An untimely death, a community divided
Niloofar Khalili falls to the ground near her daughter Bianca’s grave at Eden Memorial Park in the San Fernando Valley. When asked later if she had fainted, Khalili said, “I feel like she’s in my arms. I’m holding her, and I feel like I want to stay with her.” Khalili was joined by friends and family on her daughter’s 18th birthday. (Liz O. Baylen / Los Angeles Times)
A portrait of Bianca Khalili sits near her grave. On May 26, the Beverly Hills High senior died after a fall from a Century City high-rise. Although police ruled the death a suicide, some in the Persian-Jewish community suspected foul play. (Liz O. Baylen / Los Angeles Times)
Bianca Khalili’s mother, Niloofar, falls to the ground near her daughter’s grave. The death stunned the Persian-Jewish community on the Westside. At one point police met with a group of rabbis to get their help in easing tensions in the community. (Liz O. Baylen / Los Angeles Times)
Edward Khalili covers his face during a memorial service for his daughter Bianca, who would have turned 18 on Aug. 10. Bianca Khalili was visiting with Dora Afrahim, a classmate, on the night she died. (Liz O. Baylen / Los Angeles Times)
Birthday candles for Bianca Khalili were lighted in her memory. (Liz O. Baylen / Los Angeles Times)
