In recent decades, more schools have taken a stand against bullying by raising awareness and implementing no-tolerance policies. These efforts have certainly been positive steps, but cruelty and harassment persist in many cases. Tragically, a California teen recently died by suicide after allegedly getting bullied for being homeless.
Jose Emiliano Zamora, 14, was a student at a Santa Clara, California, school. On November 6, 2024, the high school freshman died. And according to his father, Jose Bautista, bullying the teen endured at Santa Clara High played a role in his death.
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Bautista told Fox 4 News that he and Zamora became homeless earlier in the year after getting evicted from their apartment. As a result, his son lived at a nonprofit shelter for unhoused and troubled youth, Bill Wilson Center. The 14-year-old was also treated for mental health concerns at the facility.
“We were bonding more. He was waiting for a place to live instead of the shelter,” Bautista told the outlet.
Before his death, Zamora was a member of the junior varsity football team. Bautista told Fox 4 News that other students at Zamora’s school told him about the alleged bullying after the high schooler died by suicide.
“They were spitting on him, hitting him on the back of the helmet,” he told the outlet.
The bereaved, single father told Fox 4 News that he would pick up his sone from football practice at Santa Clara High before his untimely death.
“I miss hearing him, seeing him,” Bautista said. ” I miss picking him up.”
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On November 13, Santa Clara Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Gary Waddell addressed Zamora’s death in a video shared via Facebook.
“To the extent that bullying played a factor [in Zamora’s suicide], it is unacceptable. Even one instance is too many,” Waddell said.
He also noted that “serious disciplinary action” was taken after an investigation and that the district is “fully cooperating” with the police.
Zamora’s family organized a GoFundMe campaign to help with funeral costs. The description read, in part, “In this difficult time of sadness, after the loss of our beloved son, we are thanking the many, many people reaching out to support us.”
As of writing, more than $143,000 was raised of the original $110,000 goal.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
