HANOVER, Jamaica—The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) says it is saddened at the passing of 13-year-old Twain Skyers, a student of Hopewell High School in Hanover, who tragically lost his life in a suspected suicide on September 11.

“This is an absolutely heartbreaking tragedy. The loss of a child in such circumstances is utterly devastating, and our thoughts and prayers are with Twain’s mother, relatives, classmates, and teachers as they grapple with this painful reality,” said chief executive officer of the CPFSA Laurette Adams-Thomas.

The CEO noted that CPFSA first responders have been on the ground providing immediate psychosocial support, and Twain’s mother and another family member have been referred to the CPFSA’s Child and Family Services Unit (CFSU) and the Ministry of Justice’s Victim Services Division (VSD) for counselling.

“The CPFSA team is doing everything we can to provide psychosocial support to the family, and we will continue to provide follow-up care as needed for the family and school community as they move through this very difficult time,” she added.

Adams-Thomas further encouraged students who are being bullied, abused, or feeling overwhelmed to seek help. “We want every child to know that you are not alone. Please talk to a teacher, a school guidance counsellor, a trusted adult, or call Safe Spot at 888-723-3776, which is a free and confidential helpline for children and teens. You should also report instances of abuse and bullying to our 24/7 CPFSA Child Protection Hotline at 211. Reaching out for support can save lives, especially your own.”

Adams-Thomas also appealed to communities to take bullying seriously and play a role in prevention.

“Bullying can have devastating effects on a child’s emotional wellbeing. We are urging schools, parents, and communities to work together to foster safe environments where children feel valued, protected, and supported,” the CEO said.

Reports are that Tawain was being bullied by a student from another high school, with the most recent incident taking place on September 8, at the local bus park. The police reportedly intervened, with both boys being taken to the Barnett Street Police station, where they were warned and then released to their parents.

On the evening of Twain’s death, he reportedly arrived home approximately two hours late, despite being repeatedly warned by his mother that he should get home by 5:00 pm, in an effort to keep him safe and out of trouble. His mother subsequently chastised him, and left him to cool off in his room.

Sometime later she reportedly became concerned that she had not heard any sounds coming from his room and went to check on him and found his door locked. She broke down his door and found him unresponsive in the bathroom. The mother and other family members reportedly rushed him to the Cornwall Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.