Just a month ago, Autumn Bushman was a bright 10-year-old, known for being fearless, loving, and full of life. But on March 21, the Bushman family’s world was turned upside down when Autumn tragically took her own life at their home in Roanoke, Virginia. Her parents believe this heartbreaking event was a result of ongoing bullying that went unaddressed.
Autumn’s troubles began when she stood up for classmates who were being bullied at Mountain View Elementary School, where she was in the fourth grade. Instead of being praised for her bravery, Autumn became the next target. The bullying reportedly started at the beginning of the school year in August. Her mother, Summer Bushman, explained, “She would always stand up for those being bullied, and unfortunately, that made her a target.”
While her parents knew Autumn was being bullied, they noticed subtle changes in the weeks leading up to her death. Autumn, once full of energy, began wearing darker clothes, smiling less, sleeping more, and withdrawing from activities she once enjoyed. Her father, Mark Bushman, said, “It seemed like something was off, but I never thought it was as serious as it became.”
A few weeks before her death, Autumn asked her mother if she could stay home from school due to stress from the bullying. Her parents reported the situation to the school, but they now believe the response was insufficient. Mark Bushman shared his frustration about not being able to protect his daughter during school hours, expressing concern over how well the school was monitoring the situation.
On March 21, Autumn was found in her bedroom after taking her life. The local school district has launched an investigation into the incident, but for Autumn’s family, it feels like too little too late. Autumn’s parents are urging other parents to talk openly with their children about bullying and mental health. They hope their daughter’s story will raise awareness and inspire action.
Her family remembers her as a kind and vibrant girl. They now hope her legacy will lead to real change, ensuring no other child faces what Autumn did.
