A coroner has described the death of a 12-year-old girl as "unnatural" after she was found deceased at her family home in West Sussex. Amelia Bath, from Walberton, tragically passed away on March 6, with her mother discovering her in her bedroom that morning.
Coroner's Inquest Opens into Tragic Case
During the opening of an inquest at West Sussex Coroner's Court in Horsham, Coroner Joseph Turner heard that Amelia was "sadly found deceased at her home address by hanging." The proceedings have been adjourned until a pre-inquest review scheduled for June 17, while authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding her untimely death.
Family's Heartbreaking Account
Amelia's uncle, Kris Marsh, revealed the devastating impact on the family, stating: "It was an absolute massive shock to everybody. It was totally out of the blue. I don't think you ever recover from something like this." He described how Amelia's mother, Marie, had gone to wake her daughter for school as usual, only to make the heartbreaking discovery.
"Her world had just been completely turned upside down," Marsh added, capturing the family's profound grief. According to family members, Amelia had spent the evening before her death laughing and joking while eating fish and chips at her grandparents' house, making the subsequent events even more shocking.
Snapchat Bullying Allegations Surface
Friends later informed Amelia's parents that the 12-year-old had been targeted by bullies on Snapchat in the weeks preceding her death. These allegations have raised serious concerns about online harassment and its potential consequences for young people's mental wellbeing.
Sussex Police confirmed they are "reviewing the wider circumstances" of Amelia's death, though they are not treating it as suspicious. A police spokesperson stated: "We are working alongside schools and partner agencies to support the girl's family and others who have been impacted."
Community Support and Memorial Fund
Amelia's aunt, Lisa Marsh, has established a GoFundMe fundraiser that has already raised more than £16,000 to support the family with funeral costs. Additional funds will be donated in Amelia's memory to Chestnut Tree House, a children's hospice.
In a touching tribute, Marsh described her niece as a "bright, funny, kind-hearted and loving girl who filled every room with warmth and laughter." She continued: "She had the most beautiful soul and so much life ahead of her. She was deeply loved, and she loved deeply in return. The silence she has left behind is unbearable, and the hole in our hearts will never truly heal."
The family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, with Marsh noting: "If you are able to donate or share this page, we would be forever grateful. Every penny, every kind word, and every act of support means more than we can ever express."
For emotional support, the Samaritans 24-hour helpline can be reached at 116 123, or via email at jo@samaritans.org. In-person visits to Samaritans branches or their website also provide confidential support services.
