Wendell Middle student known as 'amazing little boy' died by suicide, family says
A Wendell Middle School student died Tuesday by suicide, family members told WRAL News.
Austin Pendergrass was an eighth-grade student at the school. He was 13.
Jessica Harris, the boy's aunt, said Pendergrass was bullied.
"Austin was an amazing little boy," Harris said. "He loved turtles."
"He was also very helpful. He would always want to pitch in and help out with doing anything. He liked to bake with his mom and siblings."
On Wednesday night, he was memorialized with a balloon release in Knightdale. Those who attended wore red and white, Austin's favorite colors.
"I just wish Austin knew all these people were here to support [him]," said mother, Jessica Pendergrass. "I just wish he didn't feel so alone."
Pendergrass lived part-time with his mom and part-time with his dad.
"Last year, he struggled a lot," Harris said of her nephew. "And, I think that came from some kids bullying him ... from a kid bullying him from what I've been told."
"It's so sad," said Jessica Pendergrass. "But I hope, I really hope, that this can bring some awareness to other parents, to check on their kids, be mean, go through their social media, go through their phones, find out what's going on. Teach their kids to be kind to other kids, even if they're different. And just make sure that we listen to our kids, and know what's going on. And just hug your kids a little tighter."
"We will forever cherish all the memories, but unfortunately, nothing is going to bring our baby back," Harris said.
Balloon release pays respects to Wendell Middle School student who died
"This balloon release is definitely to honor his memory and his life, but it's to also to bring awareness," Harris said. "Talk to your kids.
"Know what's going on, and if your child tells you that someone is mistreating them or bullying them, don't stop. Get to the bottom of it because kids are cruel."
Several people have written heartfelt social media posts offering condolences to Pendergrass and his family.
"It's such a shame that my nephew had to encounter what he did going to the school," Harris said. "Personally, from my perspective, the school failed him."
Harris shared what she would remember about her nephew.
"Austin was a good kid, and I mean, this saddens my heart so much," Harris said.
On Tuesday night at its regular meeting, the Wake County Board of Education addressed the tragic event.
“The town of Wendell will surround the school with nothing but love and support,” said District 1 School Board Member Heather Scott.
On Tuesday morning, a "medical crisis" on the campus prompted an early dismissal for students, according to a letter sent to parents
“It’s a tough topic,” said Dr. Kamala Uzzell, a licensed psychotherapist.
Uzzell said navigating discussions with children about unexpected deaths of young people can be challenging, but necessary.
“I think it’s appropriate to ask, ‘What are your feelings?’” Uzzell said. “’How are you feeling? You can come to me at anytime.’”
Principal Catherine Trudell said in a letter to Wendell Middle School parents that the school will provide a student services team and support from the District Crisis Team for students.
"It is an unexpected loss, and we are saddened by it,” Trudell wrote.
Uzzell reminds parents after this tragedy to be vigilant of their children’s behavioral patterns.
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, the suicide crisis hotline can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 988.
