Investigation Opens After 14-Year-Old's Suicide in Saint-Nazaire Amid School Harassment Claims

The tragic suicide of a 14-year-old student at a private college in Saint-Nazaire has prompted an official investigation into prolonged school harassment. The girl’s parents filed a formal complaint alleging that their daughter endured 16 months of bullying at the Saint-Louis college, and they accused the school of failing to adequately address the harassment despite their repeated concerns. The Saint-Nazaire prosecutor's office has launched an inquiry to determine the circumstances surrounding the girl’s death, which occurred earlier this year.

The parents highlighted in a detailed seven-page letter to the rectorate the alleged lack of formal anti-bullying procedures at the school. The Loire-Atlantique Catholic education system responded by stating it maintained "particular vigilance" regarding the student and is cooperating transparently with investigators, hoping the inquiry clarifies the situation.

This case echoes a recent similar tragedy involving Camélia, a 17-year-old who also died by suicide after reporting harassment at school, underscoring ongoing concerns about school violence in France.

In response to these serious developments, French Education Minister Édouard Geffray addressed parents nationwide, calling for a "collective awakening" in combating school violence and bullying. Highlighting a recent violent stabbing of a teacher by a 14-year-old student in Sanary-sur-Mer, Geffray emphasized that schools alone cannot combat violence effectively and urged parents to engage actively with their children. He stressed the importance of discussing respect, maintaining vigilance against insults and physical aggression, and reporting incidents promptly.

"An child should not be violent," Geffray declared, underscoring that parental example and involvement are crucial to preserving a safe educational environment. He called for a united effort to tackle the complex causes of youth violence, urging parents to reinforce positive behaviors and view schools and staff as vital support networks.

Currently, the investigation in Saint-Nazaire continues, as authorities seek to piece together the full context of the harassment and the systemic failings alleged by the grieving family. Meanwhile, the broader call to action from the education ministry reflects a national concern to prevent such tragedies and build safer school communities.