Shelby County sheriff: Teen’s suicide not tied to bullying

The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement Wednesday to dispel social media rumors blaming Hardin Houston Schools for a student’s recent death by suicide.

The 15-year-old girl was found dead around 1 a.m. April 19 at the home she shared with her foster family. She was placed in the Shelby County foster home by Isaiah’s Place in Logan County.

The foster parents said they checked on her that night after they received a call from her boyfriend concerned she would harm herself, according to the sheriff’s office.

“Detectives found the juvenile’s journal, which was up to date as of the 18th of April. They interviewed the foster parents, interviewed the boyfriend, spoke with the school and examined her cellphone. They conducted an extensive investigation, found no wrongdoing or suspicion this wasn’t a suicide and were comfortable with their conclusion,” the statement read in part.

“During the investigation, from the juvenile’s own words through her journal and her phone, she made reference as to what was bothering her and it had nothing to do with the school or anything to do with bullying.”

The Hardin Houston School District was made aware of the student’s death by suicide and they acted immediately, according to the sheriff’s office. There were counselors and clergy available at the school, and about 15 students sought help.

Several members of the faculty spoke with the juvenile the last day of school just before she left for the day, she had even tossed a football in the gym with the principal.

“Everyone stated she was upbeat, ready for her upcoming 16th birthday ... When we investigate cases involving a death, it is very hard for all of those involved. I always tell people right from the start, that they will have questions that we will never have answers for, which this case is no different, as I am sure there are questions people have that we will never have an answer for,” the statement read.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth. The Dayton Daily News Path Forward team is taking a deep dive into what can be done to improve mental health outcomes for youth in our community.

That series will begin in the coming weeks.

HOW TO GET HELP

People in need can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) to reach a trained counselor, 24/7.

The national crisis text line can be accessed by texting CONNECT to 741741.

An online chat option is available by going to suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/ and entering your ZIP code.

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