FORNEY, Texas — A preliminary investigation into a Forney High School student’s suicide on Wednesday morning indicates bullying was not a factor, according to a statement released by the Forney Police Department (FPD) which is investigating the circumstances of the death.
FORNEY, Texas — A preliminary investigation into a Forney High School student’s suicide on Wednesday morning indicates bullying was not a factor, according to a statement released by the Forney Police Department (FPD) which is investigating the circumstances of the death.
“At this time, through the current investigation and conversation FPD has had with the family, there has been no connection that this suicide resulted from bullying,” stated the release from the Forney Police Department.
The district provided additional grief counselors to students and faculty on Thursday and Friday.
A Facebook memorial page for the student alleged bullying was the leading factor in the student’s death which also prompted a report by WFAA-TV. The page has since been deleted.
“If it is determined at a later time, that there is an underlying issue or action that may have attributed to a suicide, a press release will be distributed for the purpose of information dissemination and/or asking for assistance with the incident,” continued the FPD’s release which stated the department does not typically discuss suicide cases.
The FPD is also asking anyone with information concerning the child’s death, including any reports of bullying, to contact the department at (972) 564-7628.
The Forney Independent School District (ISD) stated they are working closely with the FPD with the ongoing investigation. “We are deeply saddened by this heartbreaking news. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of those touched by this tragic event,” stated the Forney ISD.
The Forney ISD’s bullying protocol allows for several ways to report bullying including reporting the incident to a teacher, principal, assistant principal, or counselor; leaving a note in the counselor’s “report box;” call the FISD Student Services to report bullying at (972) 564-4055; or by calling the district’s 24-hour Stay Alert hotline at 1-(206) 406-6485. Reports to the district’s Stay Alert hotline can remain anonymous.
“Forney ISD takes a proactive approach to educate students on how to create a safe, caring, and supportive learning environment,” stated the Forney ISD release. “The District has a number of programs in place to help students learn how to treat others. One example of those programs is conducted by Teen Contact that comes out to the District and meets with students to talk about bullying, cyberbullying, and suicide prevention.”
For more information on the district’s bullying policy and procedures for investigating reports, visit the district’s website.
