Virginia 10-year-old takes her own life after standing up to bullies

Autumn Bushman, a vibrant 10-year-old from Roanoke, Virginia, tragically died by suicide on March 21 after enduring relentless bullying. Her parents, Summer and Mark, say the bullying began when she defended classmates at Mountain View Elementary School — and soon became a target herself.

Autumn started showing subtle changes: wearing darker clothes, withdrawing socially, and asking to stay home from school due to stress. Her parents reported the bullying, but believe the school didn’t do enough. On the day she died, she was found in her bedroom.

The school district issued a statement saying a review is underway, but Autumn’s parents feel the response is “too little, too late.” They’re now urging parents to talk early with their kids about mental health and bullying.