Tragic Suicide of 13-Year-Old Boy Highlights Bullying Crisis in New Hampshire
A 13-year-old boy from New Hampshire has died by suicide after enduring relentless bullying at school and on his bus ride home, with his family revealing he felt unsupported in coping with the loss of his mother. Josiah Michael Dwinell, a student at Vilas Middle School in Alstead, took his own life on March 12, 2024, by jumping into the Cold River, a decision his aunt attributed to the incessant teasing he faced daily.
Family Struggles and Overlooked Mental Health
Josiah's aunt, Shaena Stebbins, shared his heartbreaking story online, explaining that the boy had been adopted by his grandmother, referred to as Mimi, after his mother, Amber (Lyon) Dwinell, died unexpectedly more than five years ago. Despite Mimi's efforts to support him, Josiah felt isolated, with Stebbins noting that his mental health was often dismissed as attention-seeking by those outside his home. Josiah had visited the hospital multiple times as his condition worsened, but these interventions proved insufficient to prevent the tragedy.
The bullying escalated to a point where Josiah, who had just celebrated his birthday eight days prior, believed suicide was his only escape. Stebbins recounted that after a bus ride home, he decided he could no longer handle the harassment and jumped from a bridge into the freezing river. Josiah did not know how to swim, leading to his tragic death.
Community Response and Investigation
First responders from multiple agencies, including Alstead Fire, ambulance, and police, rushed to the scene after reports of a boy falling into the Cold River. The town of Alstead issued a statement praising the courage and dedication of the responders. The New Hampshire State Police are investigating the incident, with communications director Tyler Dumont expressing condolences to the community and confirming no further details will be released.
In the wake of Josiah's death, the Fall Mountain Regional School District, which includes Alstead, posted a statement mourning the loss and offering counseling to students and staff. The family has circulated an image of a teal and purple ribbon with the message 'you are never alone' to raise awareness about suicide prevention.
Outpouring of Support and Memorial Efforts
The community has rallied around Josiah's family, with a GoFundMe campaign set up to cover funeral and medical expenses exceeding its $6,500 goal, raising over $23,000. Described as an 'amazing brother, son, nephew and all-around young man,' Josiah is remembered for bringing light and joy to those who knew him. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for March 29 in his honor.
Josiah's mother, Amber, passed away on January 11, 2021, with her obituary noting she could 'brighten up the darkest of days.' The family continues to grieve this compounded loss, urging greater attention to mental health and anti-bullying measures in schools.
