Baily O’Neill, a 12-year-old boy who was bullied and beaten at his Pennsylvania school, has died. He was taken off of life support on Sunday, March 3 – just days after his twelfth birthday.

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, O’Neill was a sixth grader at Darby Township School in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia. He was allegedly bullied by classmates, one of whom punched O’Neill in the face, breaking his nose and causing a serious concussion. Soon after, O’Neill began having seizures and was put into a medically induced coma.

Stephen Butz, superintendent for the Southeast Delco School district, has released a statement expressing condolences and assuring the public that the school district is working with authorities to investigate the death.

The statement, in full:

Dear Southeast Delco School Community,

Late yesterday, we were informed about the death of Bailey O’Neill. Bailey was a sixth grade student at Darby Township School. Our school community is deeply saddened by this loss. Our condolences are with Bailey’s family and friends during this very difficult time.

Additional counselors have been made available to assist our students and staff with the emotions around the death of Bailey.

The school district continues to work with local authorities in their investigation into the cause of Bailey’s death.

During this time, our thoughts and prayers are with Bailey’s family and friends.

Stephen D. Butz, Ed.D.
Superintendent

The Inquirer report states that there is video of the bullying incident in which O’Neill was punched. The Delaware County District Attorney’s office is investigating the incident, and an autopsy will reveal more about the cause of O’Neill’s death.

(Image courtesy the Prayers for Bailey O’Neill Facebook page)