10-Year-Old Girl Dies by Suicide After Defending Bullied Classmates in Virginia

Just weeks ago, 10-year-old Autumn Bushman was a lively and spirited girl, known for her bold heart, infectious energy, and deep compassion for others. But on March 21, everything changed when Autumn took her own life inside her family’s home in Roanoke, Virginia — a devastating end to what her parents say was unchecked bullying at school.

From Defender to Target

According to her heartbroken parents, Autumn’s troubles began after she courageously stepped in to protect classmates from bullying at Mountain View Elementary, where she was enrolled in the fourth grade. Instead of being supported, Autumn found herself targeted.

The bullying reportedly began when the school year started last August. Her mother, Summer Bushman, explained that Autumn had always been the type to stand up for others — a trait that unfortunately put a spotlight on her.

“If someone was being picked on, she was the first to speak up,” Summer told WDBJ. “But that strength may have made her a target herself.”

Her parents had been aware that Autumn was dealing with bullies but didn’t realize how serious the situation had become until the final few weeks of her life.

Subtle Changes, Deep Pain

Autumn’s once-sparkling personality began to fade. She started wearing darker clothes and became noticeably quieter. Her laughter, once constant, grew rare. She slept more, withdrew from her favorite activities, and seemed more isolated.

“There weren’t any clear warning signs that screamed something was terribly wrong,” her father Mark recalled. “But her light started to dim.”

One day, Autumn tearfully approached her mom, asking not to go to school. “I’m really stressed. I’m being bullied. Can I just stay home tomorrow?” she pleaded.

Though the Bushmans had reported their concerns to the school, they now feel those efforts fell short. “We were told things were being handled,” Summer said, “but it clearly wasn’t enough.”

A Family Shattered

On the morning of March 21, Autumn was found in her bedroom. The news of her death has sent shockwaves through the Roanoke community.

The school district responded with a statement promising a full investigation, though they noted that federal privacy laws limit what they can share. “We are conducting a comprehensive review. We take all bullying reports very seriously,” the district said.

But to Autumn’s family, these efforts come too late.

A Call for Awareness and Change

Autumn’s parents are now urging families everywhere to have honest conversations about mental health and bullying — no matter how young a child may be.

While Autumn didn’t use social media, her parents believe the emotional toll from in-person bullying at school was overwhelming. “I couldn’t be there during the school day to protect her,” said Mark. “That’s what hurts the most.”

The Bushmans held a community-wide memorial for Autumn at the end of March. Her funeral was open to the public — not only to honor her life but to raise awareness and push for change.

Mark Bushman shared a powerful message on social media, writing, “Ending bullying isn’t something that happens in isolation. It takes a whole community. Real change comes when we stop reacting and start rebuilding. Let’s give these kids the support they need to thrive — both at school and at home.”

Remembering Autumn

Autumn is remembered not only as a victim but as a hero — a girl who stood up for others despite the cost. She loved dancing, cheerleading, archery, and anything the color baby blue. Her heart was big, her spirit infectious.

A touching tribute video shared by family friend Cher Nelson Johnson showed Autumn smiling, playing, and growing up — scenes that now carry heartbreaking weight.

“This beautiful girl is gone far too soon,” Johnson wrote. “Talk to your kids. End bullying. Please.”

As tributes continue to pour in, Autumn’s story is stirring action and conversation well beyond her hometown.

Her parents are determined to ensure her memory lives on — not only through grief but through a collective promise: that no child should ever feel so alone again.