Story perspectives
Tragic Suicide of 10-Year-Old Highlights Bullying and Screen Use
10/24/2025
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Story summary
- Autumn Bushman, a 10-year-old from Salem, Virginia, died by suicide on March 21 after bullying at school and online.
- Records show Autumn was on her smartphone shortly before death.
- A Virginia Tech study links nighttime screen use to teen suicide attempts, noting two-thirds occur after 8 p.m.
- Experts recommend keeping phones out of bedrooms and practicing good sleep hygiene.
- Summer Bushman mourns the loss and milestones her daughter will miss.
