Sammy Teusch was a 10-year-old boy who loved soccer, fishing, and robots. Sadly, his life ended too soon after facing years of bullying. His story highlights how serious bullying can be and why action is needed to protect children.
Sammy and his family were from Florida, where he was happy and had friends. But things changed when they moved to Greenfield, Indiana, in 2022. He started at Weston Elementary and later attended Greenfield Intermediate School. Unfortunately, he was targeted by other students, and the bullying didn’t stop.
Sammy told teachers about the problem, but instead of helping, some ignored him. His parents reached out to the school many times, asking for support. They say they were either dismissed or told Sammy was the problem. Some teachers reportedly made fun of him instead of protecting him.
The bullying became physical and emotional. He was hit with an iPad so hard he got a black eye. He was put in a chokehold so strong he almost passed out. He was chased through the halls, trapped in the bathroom, and beaten up on the bus. Students also mocked his appearance, calling him names and comparing him to a well-known criminal. One student repeatedly told him to harm himself.
On Saturday, May 4, one of his bullies called him, threatening violence at school on Monday. Sammy never returned to school. The next evening, he took his own life. His 13-year-old brother found him.
Sammy’s parents have filed a lawsuit against the school district. They believe the school ignored their complaints and failed to act. Their lawyer says the case isn’t just about justice for Sammy but about preventing future tragedies.
Even after Sammy’s death, some of his bullies didn’t stop. One took photos at his funeral and laughed. Others acknowledged their actions in messages but faced no known consequences.
Bullying remains a major issue in schools. Parents, teachers, and communities must work together to create safer environments. Recognizing signs of distress and teaching kindness at home can help prevent future tragedies. Sammy’s story is a painful reminder of why this issue cannot be ignored.
