A 12-year-old girl tragically collapsed and died last week following an incident involving another student on a school bus.
According to reports, Jada West, a student at Mason Creek Middle School in Georgia, collapsed shortly after getting off the bus near her home in Villa Rica.
Sources say she had been involved in an argument with another girl on the bus, which reportedly escalated into a physical altercation once they disembarked. Video footage obtained by U.S. outlets appears to show West and the other girl fighting in the street.
Though the cause of the conflict remains unclear, Jada collapsed while walking home after the fight had ended. One of her friends ran to her house to alert her parents. Jada was initially rushed to Tanner Medical Center before being transferred to Scottish Rite Hospital.
“I don’t understand. And she was on the ground, she wasn’t breathing,” Jada’s mother, Rashuna McLendon, told Fox 5 Atlanta. “I’m so angry. We have to teach our children to love.”
Sadly, Jada succumbed to her injuries. An autopsy is planned to determine the exact cause of death.
Her family revealed that she was new to Mason Creek Middle School and claimed that she had experienced bullying.
“We just want justice for my niece,” said Jada’s aunt. “This has got to stop. And we are going to keep saying Jada West’s name.”
The Douglas County School System (DCSS) issued a statement expressing their condolences:
“The Douglas County School System is deeply saddened by the passing of a student at Mason Creek Middle School. We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to her family and loved ones during this difficult time. She will be remembered by her teachers, classmates, and all who knew her.
The well-being of our students and staff is of primary importance to our school system. Any situation that results in harm to a child is treated with the highest level of urgency.
This incident did not occur on school property or during school hours, and there is nothing to indicate that it is related to any on-campus activity. Therefore, this matter is under the jurisdiction of the Villa Rica Police Department.
To protect the privacy of the student and her family, we are not able to share additional details at this time.
We recognize that this loss is being felt deeply across our school community. A crisis team of psychologists and counselors will be available at Mason Creek Middle School to support grieving students and staff and provide a safe space for care. The Douglas County School System and Mason Creek Middle School remain fully committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for every student in our care.”
Rest in peace, Jada West.
