Greenville County Community Reacts to Tragic Bullying Incident

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A group of supportive students standing together in front of their school.

News Summary

The Greenville County community is reeling from the heartbreaking story of Kelaia Turner, a 12-year-old student who attempted suicide after enduring sustained bullying. Despite reports to school officials, the harassment continued unchecked, culminating in a tragic incident that left Kelaia in need of constant care. Her family is now seeking justice while raising awareness about bullying through a new nonprofit. The community has rallied to support them, raising substantial funds through GoFundMe. This situation has ignited a necessary conversation about the importance of addressing bullying in schools.

Greenville County Community Grieves as Bullying Incident Turns Tragic

In the heart of Greenville County, South Carolina, a somber story has unfolded that has left a family and community grappling with the devastating impact of bullying. A 12-year-old student, Kelaia Turner, attending Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle School, attempted suicide on March 17, 2023. The heartbreaking incident happened after Kelaia faced relentless bullying for over 15 months, starting when she entered sixth grade in August 2021.

The Cruelty of Bullying

According to the details, Kelaia’s experiences at school became increasingly troubling as fellow students hurled derogatory names her way. She was called “roach,” “mustache face,” and even subjected to comments about resembling a man. Despite Kelaia’s numerous reports to school officials about the bullying, the bullying not only persisted but reportedly worsened. This shocking reality raises the question: what happens when children feel they have nowhere to turn?

Inadequate Responses from School Officials

Witnesses claim that instead of stepping in to protect her, one of Kelaia’s teachers, Olivia Bennett, even added to the pain by pointing her out during the taunts. Kelaia’s parents, deeply concerned, communicated their fears to Principal Jeremie Smith, who recognized the situation yet failed to take any meaningful action to help their daughter. Ironically, Kelaia found herself facing suspension after a physical altercation with one of her bullies in March 2022, while the bully was left unscathed with no disciplinary action.

Shocking Incidents of Bullying

The relentless torment included heart-wrenching incidents like peers pouring water on Kelaia’s clothes, tossing them away, and a classmate playing a racially insensitive song while the teacher was present, unfortunately not reprimanding the action. These instances paint a bleak picture of Kelaia’s school environment, where it seemed like no adult intervention took place to halt the ongoing harassment.

The Harrowing Attempt and Aftermath

On that fateful day, March 17, Kelaia’s struggle reached a tragic conclusion when she attempted to hang herself. For eight agonizing minutes, she remained unresponsive before emergency responders were able to revive her. However, the ordeal left her with severe brain damage, requiring a tracheotomy and feeding tube, disrupting her everyday life drastically. It’s hard to imagine what any child, especially one so young, must endure during such a horrific experience.

Facing the Unimaginable

After attempting to take her own life, Kelaia was left in a coma for weeks, with her mother, Ty Turner, sharing that her daughter now needs constant care due to the incapacitating effects of the tragedy. Adding to the unbelievable pain, it was reported that the same peers who bullied her visited her in the ICU, taking photos while she lay in a coma and sharing them on social media for the world to see. Such actions raise serious questions about empathy and kindness in our communities.

Seeking Justice

Kelaia’s family has filed a lawsuit seeking damages for the medical bills, psychiatric expenses, emotional trauma, and lost wages they faced as a result of the incident. The Greenville County Schools have firmly denied the allegations, stating they maintain a zero-tolerance policy for bullying and that all claims are thoroughly investigated. However, Kelaia’s case is not an isolated one; at least three other lawsuits concerning similar bullying incidents have been filed against the school district.

Turning Pain into Purpose

In response to this heartbreaking situation, Ty Turner has started a nonprofit organization named Kelaia’s Kause, dedicated to raising awareness about bullying and supporting those who face similar challenges. This shining light in the darkness is a testament to the strength and resilience stemming from such heart-wrenching circumstances.

Community Support

Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign has rallied community support for Kelaia, raising over $92,000 to help alleviate her medical expenses and ongoing needs. This financial backing not only represents a lifeline for Kelaia but also reflects a community that is coming together in love and support during an incredibly difficult time.

This tragic incident serves as a poignant reminder of how critical it is for parents, educators, and peers to stand against bullying and ensure that every child feels safe and valued in their school environment. For Kelaia and many others, the hope is that voices are heard, and actions are taken before it’s too late.

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