Southaven Family Says Bullying Prompted Suicide Death Of 6th Grade MS Boy

Andy Leach has been named as the Southaven, Mississippi youth found dead in an apparent suicide.

Members of the Leach family are speaking out, saying that the boy’s death occurred after he endoured bullying at Southaven Middle School located at 899 Rasco Road, Southaven, MS 38671.

12-year-old Andy hanged himself Tuesday. He was buried Friday. His parents Matthew Leach and Cheryl Hudson say Andy was bullied for months by classmates at Southaven Middle School where he was a 6th grader.

DeSoto County Schools released the following statement on Leach’s passing:

“All bullying reports are treated with the utmost importance. Students and parents are encouraged to contact school officials anytime there are bullying concerns, and they can use a link on the DeSoto County Schools website if they would prefer to report bullying incidents anonymously. All claims are investigated thoroughly, and school counselors are trained to help students and intervene when they are aware of a situation. Our hearts go out to this young student’s friends and family.” source

If you or someone you know are considering suicide please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.