09 June 2023 , 11:08
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A 10-year-old child took his own life after he was allegedly bullied at school, but his father claims school officials "didn't have time" to deal with it.
Gianlukas "Lukas" Illescas was a student at the Hillcrest Elementary School in Peekskill, New York and would plead with family to let him stay home so he wouldn't have to go to school.
Lukas' dad Christian places the blame at the foot of the school district for the death of his child around two weeks ago.
On a GoFundMe set up for, "Bullying is responsible for the death of a 10-year-old child!" Christian wrote. "He will never get to graduate with his friends, make memories alongside his family, and have a life full of choices and adventure! His family and friends are heartbroken and beyond devastated."
Christian alleged in comments made to ABC News that Lukas was "relentlessly bullied by one child".
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Christian yelled at school board members while showing a picture of his son on his phone (WABC)He added: "I have nothing to lose. My son is gone, so all I want right now is justice for other kids."
His furious family and other angry protesters wearing t-shirts with Lukas' face on them made their voices heard at a Peekskill School Board meeting on Tuesday.
Superintendent David Mauricio asked for a moment of silence for Lukas at the meeting, before moving on to discuss the school prom.
Protesters vented their fury at a school board meeting (WABC)Mauricio said the district is now investigating to "ensure allegations of misconduct are responded to properly and in a timely manner."
According to the New York Post, one angry parent yelled: "All these parents are here. There are witnesses... And we are not taking that anymore. A 10-year-old child had to suffer because of negligence? Because you didn’t take time?"
In a statement, the city of Peekskill said: "On behalf of the City of Peekskill, I want to express our condolences on the recent passing of a Hillcrest Elementary School student.
The school district is now investigating (WABC)"Our hearts and prayers are with the family. Our Police Department is still actively investigating this matter and will share information once the findings are complete."
Peekskill's police force said it is still investigating Lukas' death and it has not yet been determined he died from suicide.
In a statement, the force said: "This tragic event is still actively being investigated, and no definitive conclusions have been made. Please continue to support the Illescas family during this difficult time."
In the US, if you or someone you know needs help, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.
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In the UK, the Samaritans is available 24/7 if you need to talk. You can contact them for free by calling 116 123, email [email protected] or head to the website to find your nearest branch. You matter.