Just a month ago, Autumn Bushman was a vibrant 10-year-old, described by her parents as fearless, loving, and full of energy.
But on March 21, the Bushman family’s world shattered when Autumn died by suicide at their home in Roanoke, Virginia — a heartbreaking end to what her parents say was relentless bullying that went unchecked.
How it took a heartbreaking turn
According to her grieving parents, Autumn’s troubles began when she stood up for classmates who were being bullied at Mountain View Elementary School, where she was in the fourth grade.
Instead of being celebrated for her courage, Autumn became the next target.
The bullying reportedly began at the start of the school year last August, when Autumn entered the fourth grade.
“She was one if somebody was getting bullied or picked on, she would stand up for them. And unfortunately that may have made her a target for more bullying,” Autumn’s mom, Summer Bushman told WDBJ.
While her parents were aware that Autumn was facing bullying, they say the situation took a heartbreaking turn in the final weeks of her life.
It began with subtle changes — ones that, in hindsight, carried heavy meaning. Autumn, once full of spark and laughter, started wearing darker clothes. Her bright smile faded. She slept more, played less, and began to pull away from the world she once embraced so fearlessly.
“I saw no signs that made me go, ‘Something’s really wrong,’” Mark Bushman said.
“But it did seem to dull her shine in the last few weeks leading up.”
