BY DAN HILDEBRAN
General manager
Bradford County Sheriff Gordon Smith said a fifth grader at Starke Elementary School was found dead from a suicide early Wednesday, January 31.
“We are all in shock,” the sheriff said about the incident. “It’s tragic, not only for the family but also for our detectives, the students, the staff at the school, and our entire community.”
Smith said the girl’s mother called 911 around 6:45 Wednesday morning. He said the mother discovered the student while attempting to make sure she was getting ready for school. He added that deputies tried to revive the girl but were unsuccessful.
Smith said his investigators, so far, have uncovered no evidence of bullying at school or abuse at home. He added that the investigation is ongoing.
“We are looking at grades, attendance, the whole nine yards,” he said.
Smith added that his investigators had viewed a video of a fight the girl was involved in that resulted in her suspension, the suspension of the other fighter, and the person who recorded the video.
He characterized the video as one of a fight and not of bullying, pushing back on rumors surrounding the girl’s death.
The sheriff said the school has offered counseling to students and staff on the Weldon Street campus.
“They are doing all the right things,” he said.
Smith added, however, that the one question everyone is asking may never be answered.
“We all want to know why, and we may never know why,” he said. “I am at a loss for words for why a 10-year-old would do that.”
If you or someone you know needs mental health resources and support, please call, text, or chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or visit988lifeline.org for 24/7 access to free and confidential services.
