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Family Says Bullying Preceded New Hampshire Boy’s Suicide at 13

Relatives report that pleas for help were dismissed as coverage elevates guidance on asking directly about suicide risk.

Overview

  • Josiah Michael Dwinell died by suicide on March 12 in Alstead, New Hampshire, eight days after his 13th birthday, according to his family.
  • Relatives say he faced persistent bullying at school and on the bus and that attempts to seek help were brushed off as attention-seeking.
  • Family accounts describe multiple hospital visits with his grandmother advocating for care, but they felt his mental-health needs were overlooked.
  • A GoFundMe organized by his aunt to cover funeral costs and support the family has raised more than $23,000.
  • NAMI–New Hampshire’s executive director urges parents to speak directly about suicide when concerned, and the articles do not include formal statements from schools, police, or hospitals.