Boy 'was bullied to suicide'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A boy of 11 took a fatal overdose yesterday after being bullied at school, his mother said. Thomas Thompson swallowed painkillers at his home in Wallasey, Merseyside.
Sandra Thompson, 33, found him just after 7pm and called an ambulance but he died before reaching hospital.
She said her son was taunted at Wallasey School. "This was a cry for help. I have no words to describe the people who persecuted him other than I hate them. They can hang their heads in shame."
Thomas, who wanted to be a science teacher, was interested in politics and regularly attended anti-war rallies.
Martin Pope, his headteacher, offered his sympathy to the family. But he added: "Thomas was receiving support from pastoral staff and a learning mentor for a range of issues, including poor attendance ... There were no reports of bullying in the school."
The death was not being treated as suspicious, a spokeswoman for Merseyside Police said.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments