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MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Family and friends of a 14-year-old girl who police say took her own life this week are protesting outside her school Thursday.

They claim her suicide was the result of bullying.

Alexcia Smith, a Riverview Middle School student, was found dead in her home Tuesday. Initial police reports state it was self-inflicted.

Alexcia’s father, Tristan Williams, says he found his daughter.

“It broke her down. It took my baby’s life. I had to walk in and find her. That was my heart,” said Williams.

The next day he says family cleaned out her locker and found a journal documenting the bullying.

“Came up here three times a week just to check on this bullying and everything,” said Williams.

He said only the special education teacher reached out to the family.

“She was crying out for help, and she didn’t get the help. We are here crying out for justice. There should be an end to bullying,” said cousin Danielle Williams.

Shelby County Schools said they had no claims of bullying reported to the school.

“We take all reports of bullying very seriously, and any time a family or student makes a claim, it is thoroughly investigated. Families are notified and brought in to help resolve any reported issues. We encourage anyone who suspects bullying to please report it immediately. ”

Family said they will be back at the school protesting Friday at 10 a.m. and will then hold a vigil at the school Friday night at 7:30.

 

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