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UPDATED: 13-year-old dead after suicide

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Frantic parents crammed the entrance of Hillview Middle School Monday afternoon as deputies stood guard. Deputies were searching for a 13-year-old student who was depresses and believed to be armed with his father's firearm. (Photos by TONY CHEVAL)
Frantic parents crammed the entrance of Hillview Middle School Monday afternoon as deputies stood guard. Officials placed the school on lockdown as deputies searched for a 13-year-old student who was depressed and believed to be armed with his father’s firearm. (Photos by TONY CHEVAL)
Nigel Hardy
Nigel Hardy

UPDATED: 4/16/13 @ 5 am: Nigel Hardy, the 13-year-old Hillview Middle School student believed to be suicidal and armed with his father’s handgun, has passed away, according to Sgt. Harry Drucker of the Sheriff’s Headquarter’s Bureau.

“It’s being investigated as a suicide, there is no indication that there is anything other than that,” Drucker said early Tuesday morning. Nigel apparently died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

If you or a loved one is in need of mental health assistance please refer to the numbers below for help:

  • Suicide prevention hotline: 877-727-4747, 800-448-3000
  • California Youth Crisis : 800-843-5200
  • Angel’s Flight: 800-833-2499
  • Children of the Night: 800-551-1300  

Read our earlier story on the incident below.

**

PALMDALE – Hillview Middle School was placed on lockdown for hours on Monday as authorities searched for a 13-year-old student believed to be suicidal and armed with his father’s handgun.

Nigel Hardy was reported missing at approximately 9:15 a.m. Monday from the 2300 Block of West Avenue N-8 in Palmdale.

Students were escorted from the school by deputies.
Students were escorted from the school by deputies.

“Hardy is despondent over an incident at school which resulted in [him] being temporarily suspended,” said Palmdale Community Relations deputy Jodi Wolfe in a statement.

Hardy, a male cheerleader, was being bullied and had gotten into a fight with another student last week, according to a Palmdale Station broadcast. That fight apparently resulted in Hardy’s suspension from the school, according to the broadcast.

Hardy’s father found an apparent suicide note in the 13-year-old’s room and alerted authorities Monday. The father’s firearm was also missing, but it was unknown whether Hardy had taken the weapon, officials said.

Hillview shut down suicidal student3As a precautionary measure, Hillview Middle School was placed on a “state of heightened awareness”, although the note did not articulate any threat toward the school or any other person, according to deputy Wolfe. About a dozen deputies and a K-9 unit responded to the school Monday.

Hours later, frantic parents crammed the entrance of the school, as deputies with drawn weapons stood guard.

Students were released, one-by-one, to waiting parents, and some students were required to leave their backpacks behind in their classrooms.

Hillview shut down suicidal student2Authorities also searched Antelope Valley Mall and Marie Kerr Park, along with the surrounding neighborhood, but were unable to locate Hardy late Monday afternoon.

By 6 p.m., deputies were combing the Boulders at the Ranch II mobile home park in Palmdale, but the teen was still at large. Officials set up a command post at Marie Kerr Park.

Hardy is described as a 13-year-old White male with dark brown wavy hair, approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing about 127 pounds. He was last seen wearing a black long sleeve shirt, dark pants and grey Nike shoes.

Anyone with information on Hardy’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Palmdale Sheriff Station at 661-272-2400.

UPDATED 4/15/2013 @ 11 pm: Nigel Hardy has been admitted to Antelope Valley Hospital with a gunshot wound believed to be self-inflicted, authorities just confirmed. Palmdale Sheriff’s detectives were contacted by Kern County authorities Monday night and told that a boy matching Nigel’s description and suffering from a gunshot wound was being transported to the hospital, according to Lt. Johnson of the Palmdale Station. Authorities contacted Nigel’s family who identified the boy as Nigel Hardy and the search was called off. Johnson did not have any details regarding Nigel’s condition, and the Hardy family was still at Antelope Valley Hospital as of 11 p.m. Monday. We will update this story as more information becomes available.

UPDATED 4/16/2013 @ 12 pm: According to an update issued by the sheriff’s department Tuesday afternoon: “Nigel Hardy, the teen reported missing from Palmdale committed suicide in Kern County at approximately 8:00 PM Monday, April 15, 2013. The investigation will be handled by Kern County Sheriff’s Department personnel.”
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237 comments for "UPDATED: 13-year-old dead after suicide"

  1. its sad that life innocent child end like this, bullying something need be put in high priority in school, some kids fight, some just don’t and solution for that just end life, question is what schools do about that, what city of Palmdale and Lancaster do ?are they trying do things different so tragedy like that never happened again,.RIP SWEETHEART,MY HEART GOES FOR THIS BOY FAMILY. Maybe after this accident will be wake up call for all schools ..

  2. Poor Nigel Hardy he used to go to my school in Avon Indiana. I remember him having a great smile and always happy.
    R.I.P. NIGEL HARDY

  3. Please your opinions: As a parent do you tell your children to fight and stand up for themselves as long as they are not the one throwing the first punch OR Do you tell your children to walk away and tell an adult? As an adult when I have come upon this situation I have walked away. This was my belief to have the trust in the Authorities. I was coming home from a dinner with family, it was dark outside on Rancho Vista Blvd. and a lg. cement stone was thrown at my car and broke my windshield. We ran over to two Palmdale Police Officers sitting at a red light asked for help, showed them were we were still parked on the side of the road and the very large stone. We were told this is really not our area and they did nothing to help and slowing drove away as the light turned green. We have called Palmdale Police Dept. when we have had our electrical boxes tampered with in our neighborhood, Items stolen, eggs thrown and reported it to a authority. On zero occasions has anyone helped us. My point being so what do we teach our children when Authorities let us down and we have no faith in the system anylonger? What do we tell our children when they ask the question “what do I do Mom/Dad? Possibly just like in this case. Fight back or walk away (will it ever end).

  4. The vigil for Nigel was touching. I heard many of the students asking WHAT ARE THEY DOING HERE. I know you guys planned it and you felt it was stolen from you. Nevertheless, remember who it was really for and what it was about. I understand your feelings, but ease your minds in knowing your purpose was done. Take some satisfaction in that.

  7. Please come out today at 7pm. If it’s only for a few minutes, it would show that we do care. The students put a great deal of effort into this. Next week, I believe Wednesday. The school is having an open meeting and the superintendent will be there. Today is for Nigel.

      • The students wanted to say a goodbye prayer, I believe some band members wanted to play a song, and one student wanted to sing a song.

        • For the meeting Wednesday at 6pm at Hillview, It’s going to be about what parents want to voice. Questions and Answers.

  8. i feel so sad that nigel has passed. He used to go to my school in avon indiana. i dont understand why he had to kill himself. he had a whole bunch of friends that couldve helped him out. i hope they find who was bullying him. and i pray for his family and friends

  9. Am I the only one who is wondering why LA Sheriff hasn’t made an arrest? His step-fathers gun was used! Like always, everyone wants more gun laws! Why aren’t the ones we have now being enforced?!
    PC 12035(b)(1) is a felony and was clearly violated here. (Look it up)
    How about we stop speculating about bullies, sexual orientation, etc. Lets address what we do know; his father allowed access to a gun by not properly securing it, that’s a felony and as far as I can tell nothing is being done about it.
    His father put Nigel’s life in danger and everyone else’s!

    • From what I understand this was his stepfathers gun. His Father lives in Indiana. Someone should be questioning why the gun was so accessible to Nigel. It all comes down to being a responsible gun owner. Bullies will bully. Hillview can only do so much. You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink. My prayers are with Nigel’s family. Nigel is in God’s hands now, no guns laying around in Heaven.

      • It could of been a knife, or hung himself, or jumped of a building, it is not the guns that harm you, but the person behind it.

    • Slow down Deputy Dog….Gun or not, the kid didn’t want to be in this piece of sh*t world. He would have found a way to end his life no matter what.. If he got his hands on some rope and hung himself would you Blog up a dumba*ss post saying how we need to arrest the Ancient Egyptians??… no…so shut the hell up about ur PC 12035(b)(1)..Just another dumbass law so people like u can have someone to put the blame on..

      • We have laws for a reason. A gun is an easy way to end your life, there is no way to know if he would have hung himself if that gun wasn’t made available to him! Not to mention he only hurt himself, lucky for the other people around him! I guess they lock down schools for kids armed with rope? I haven’t heard of any mass hangings at schools!
        I guess if you catch your child drinking cough medicine to get a buzz you would just give them vodka to make it easier?
        I guess when kids get drunk at parties hosted by ignorant parents we should just look the other way, after all the kids probably would have found booze anyway!
        Pretty sure people like you are the reason this country is in such a mess.
        Again, shame on LA county for not following the law.
        Funny though that they arrested Nigel for having a knife. Nothing for the one who gave him access to a loaded gun?

        • I’m sure you don’t own a gun because you can only talk about gun laws in your post. The fact that he was able to get the gun is disturbing only because what he did with it. Many teens are thoroughly educated on how to use guns so they will know how to handle them in any situation. It may-open your mind-be possible that they trusted him and never for a moment believed that he would have took his own life. The family has enough grief at this point, you can point the finger but in the end, it is THIS family’s loss, THIS family’s grief and in no way should they be hit with such unimaginable hate at this point. They will forever have to live with this situation, and can never be reversed.The person who did this is no longer here-enough already.

  10. Nigel’s vigil is still scheduled for tomorrow at 7pm, location will be Hillview Middle School. I hope people come, it’s so very important to his schoolmates. Let the healing begin with them at the very less. We as adults will have our opinions and often disagree, but lets set that aside for awhile tomorrow and remember Nigel.

    • i want to go to nigels vigil but sadly i cant because i have volleyball practice from 6-8 if i had time to go trust me i would but i would like you to know that you have my support on the no bulling and on nigle

  11. I really hope someone is held accountable for Nigel’s sake. The school really dropped the ball on this. RIP Nigel.

      • Some comments are better to keep off the internet. If that’s how you feel, then there is nothing I can say to change that, but saying it to a whole bunch of people who are hurting… plain ignorance.

  12. I will be 60 years old in June, I was bullied as a kid in school, by teachers and kids, I also had abuse at home,and raised on welfare due to my adopted parents being seriously ill. Many times I wanted to end my life, but I kept plowing on, no one knew how I suffered because no one cared, not even the minister of the church I attended till I was in my 20s. unfortunately this is the way people are selfish, cruel and uncaring. I do not know what the answer for society is, I wish I knew how to help. I can only offer my prayers to my God, as I know him.

  13. Its time for all this stop,Bullying its been going on since schools were started,The schools need to make this there top priorty,so these kids quit geeting hurt and make a good enviroment for these young children.So they can go to school and be a what ever they want,Theres going to me more cases of bullying if the schools dont make this a priority,You should be able to go to school like this young man and be a cheerleader for the school and not get teased or ridiculed.

  14. BULLYING WAS EVEN DONE ON THIS SITE, PEOPLE WE NEED TO BE A BETTER ROLE MODEL EVEN FOR YOUR FELLOW INTERNET USER. I’M GLAD THEY TOOK DOWN THE OPTION TO VOTE FOR THUMBS UP OR THUMBS DOWN ON THIS SITE. BECAUSE I NOTICE PEOPLE WERE VOTING PEOPLE’S OPINION RIGHT OFF.. CRAZINESS..

    TREAT OTHERS THE WAY YOU WANT TO BE TREATED. THANK YOU

    • I knew Nigel he used to go to my school here in Indiana and me an him were good friends,but this doesnt sound like him. i think there has to be something more to this. And just so you know all those people that called him gay because hee was a cheerleader, guess what your wrong and I hope you feel terrible for what you did

      • You are,but keep it to yourself. Dont you see thats why most teens commit suicide its because of bullying and it needs to stop. And next time keep the bad comment to yourself cant you see what its done. A human can only take soo much of it before he gets fed up with. HELP ME STOP BULLYING!! PLEASE, WE NEED IT MORE THAN YOU CAN POSSIBLY IMAGINE!!):
        R.I.P.-Nigel Hardy
        We will miss you more than you can imagine!

      • he killed him self there is nothing more to it. i wish he was still here right now but sadly he’s not :(

      • I’m just saying they had this voting thing on here and people would vote off opinions that you are entitled to speak. I think it was bulling in it self.

  15. I read many of these comments with disgust. Too many people make judgments without knowing the facts. Too many people think they have superior intellect.

    Instead of pretending that I know everything, I just want to offer my condolences to the family and friends of the young man and a prayer for Nigel.

  16. Hello, People Wake up.
    The only time the School will contact their Parents, is when the kids don’t show up at School. Why, because the won’t get the money from the State if the kids don’t show up.
    When was the last time that you received a call from the School to update you on the Status of a Concern or complaint that you have submitted?? NEVER, They will NEVER call because they just turn their heads and ignore the problems.
    Unfortunately, we’ll see more of these situations due to negligence and lack of responsibility from the School’s STAFF to take actions to these problems…

  17. Last night I had a visit from someone who sat and talked very openly and I assure you I know the facts. Could things have been done differently Friday,Yes. Was Monday’s lock down necessary,No. Would there have been a different outcome for Nigel,I don’t know. The policies on bullying at Hillview and other schools in the A.V. can and should be changed. I gave my word on what I can and will say, However I will not let this fade away into distanced memory so easily. I don’t know if we will even be allowed to have a vigil on school grounds tomorrow, Nevertheless if we have to have it on the street this child will not be forgotten. The problem is the policies in place now are horrible, and if not changed. This incident will only be repeated in the future, someone so young should not feel life lows as if their in their eighties. They should not dread nor fear going to school because of a student or group of hellhounds. No, I can’t say what I would like to reveal, however I can say THERE WAS NO WEAPON FRIDAY.

  18. This tragedy has made my heartache… When I first came to Av and enrolled my children in school, i noticed how cruel the children where to one another.. Everyone is different and who are we to judge them.. I teach my children to show respect and at the same time don’t allow anyone to disrespect them.. I tell them if they have an issue with a kid or adult that they cannot handle let me know and i will have it handled.. Some of these children are very outspoken and respectful, which i blame the parents for letting them get away with it for far to long that it has gotten out of hand.. Raise your children people,, don’t let society raise them! Don’t except the things that you as an adult know are not right! I send my condolences to the family : (

  19. My daughter attends Hillview and was also victim to bullying and when reported to the school, Nothing! Of course the district isn’t investigating weather Nigel was bullied or not because it’s easier for them to put their blinders on. I’m sorry but the staff at that school knew what was going on. These teachers, aides and office staff are around these students every day for at least 6 hours a day and kids talk, if the staff was not aware of the problem then they were not doing their job! The school has and “AntiBully” team, what a joke! The kids on this anitbully team are bullies themselves.
    As far as grief counselors? Really? When my daughter arrived to school and was upset by the situation she was sent to the office where they asked her if she was feeling suicidal! What in the world? She is grieving the loss of life and that is what they ask her?
    Another problem here is the fact that the school wants to dismiss this whole incident and pretend it didn’t happen. Why? Because they are partly to blame. I want to know, why was there not an assembly held first thing in the morning to address what happened and to address bullying? I mean for God sake we had sheriff show up to our home looking for this boy telling us he was armed. These poor kids were held for over 2 hours in lockdown, scared to death and the school is not going to address the students, or parents about what occurred? Or inform student who are struggling with the situation, about the grief counselor available. I shouldn’t be surprised at the incompetence with the district, just like there incompetence as far as ignoring bulling and not investigating what lead to this tragedy.
    I called the district office but as I suspected I was forced to leave a message and never received a call back. Yet how convenient this evening I received an e-mail from the district stating they are holding a forum, next Wednesday to address any concerned us parents in the community may have. A little too late! This should have been a priority. I guarantee if it was a child of one of the staff, or the child of superintendent Regina Rossall, things would have been handled much differently and a guaranteed investigation into bulling would take place!

      • You should, we did and it was the best decision we ever made. Its not that hard, so many charter schools to choose from, look it up you will be glad you did.

    • I agree. My children go to Rancho Vista and were on locked own with Hillview for the 2 hours. My kindergartner and 3rd grader for goodness sakes! They were terrified and came home with several rumors! If it weren’t for my family being close to some of the employees I would have not known for days what was going on!

    • The schools act like they care for a quick minute, then go about their business. If the school district does something about it, it will be deemed that they didn’t do enough and parents will try to hold them liable.
      If they keep ignoring what is going on and acting as if the incidents are isolated and not a pattern, then they think they will never be held responsible. When you report incidents to teachers and the office at a school, document everyone you speak to and exactly what was said. Even if it’s not only your child affected. Document, document, document. Thats what you take to your attorney when you want to make a point with the school district. Sometimes the only thing they understand is when the judge tells them to WRITE YOU A CHECK!

      • That’s how this country works, the only language they understand is money, paying special attention when is leaving their pockets.

  20. I Still can’t believe it.. He was a great friend of mine; i used to be on the same cheer team as him! We would talk about how we’d get made fun of and finesse it off.. i Didn’t know there was the side of him that wasn’t strong. I regret not being there for him more than i was and i can’t stress that enough. He is a great kid. over time, i suppose we let things get to us. If there is anyone having a hard time please do them a favor and be there for them. Most don’t know how it feels when something like this hits this close to home. it’s heart breaking. God bless his whole family and him. It was a pleasure to have met them. Rest in paradise Brother.

  21. Most of these comments are crap. I will be honest. What happened to the days where you were mean to another kid and it just rolled off. Kids now a days have no backbones. I blame everyone. Children aren’t taught confidence or love like they use to. You can’t spank your child and teach them obedience. Parents don’t spend enough time with their children to dictate anything. Most of all they don’t listen. I was bullied as a child at Hillview for being overweight and sometimes it bothered me because it was either take meds to make me fat or die. I talked to my mom everytime something bothered me and she showed love and support. Parents need to talk to their children and educate them. You can’t control everything but you can be aware of your children and their activities. Teach your children honesty. We are all responsible for the next generation. No, schools usually don’t take the right actions. I was almost suspended from hillview because I didn’t want to have conflict resolution with my bully without my parents but they made us. Society sucks. They teach kids how to be whores and have babies at 16, tell kids to be beautiful you need to be skinny. This is portrayed in every media outlet. They only post/broadcast what will give them the biggest rating hike. They don’t explain a lot of the facts so we jump to wild conclusions. What is this teaching the kids that read this? We as adults are bullies, as children we were bullies. Everyone has been one at one time or another. It is sad that he felt as though it was necessary to commit suicide. That is never necessary. Kids are so much smarter then we give them credit for. They demand our attention and by having them you have committed to that for a lifetime. If you don’t want that DO NOT HAVE CHILDREN! Be active in your kids life and things like this won’t happen. We can blame one person or entity to keep our minds from blaming ourselves but that solves nothing. All I ask is the parents that read this get to know your children, their friends and teachers. You need to be in every aspect of their life THAT IS YOUR JOB!

    • No backbone, incidents rolling off??? That was very insensitive and untimely. You’re a jerk, fat or skinny a jerk still. How about condolences to the family. Yes children demand attention as a mother I know that. Most of their time, however, is spent in school and we are trusting these so called professionals that many times DO NOT act accordingly. I have seen both sides of the coin..I don’t condone violence but seriously your comments made me want to punch you straight on.

      • Obviously you are setting a very bad example. Violence and name calling d oesn’t solve anything. You as a parent should be more responsible in your actions. I was simply stating this wasn’t a common occurance “back in the day” no kid in all of my years at school did this. I offer my condolences to Nigel’s family of course. I am not bullying anyone but you Ma’am just proved my point. Thank you. Good example sweetheart.

    • I understand completely. My son went to Rancho, and my daughter to Hillview. I ended up home schooling them after my son was beaten up for being a red head, held on the ground, and the yard attendance saw it happen. When my husband and I went in to make a formal complaint, we were told we would not be informed as to the punishment of the 3 children involved for their safety. I blew. Their safety? The entire school witnessed them beat my son, and you are concerned with their safety? 0 tolerance means those 3 kids should have been expelled from the school! Period. They don’t seem to care. More bodies equals more money for the school, so they let it go.

      • That’s so true I’ve seen this kind of handling in many different schools in the westside district. They couldn’t care less. They always tend to make things look not so serious, they don’t want deal with it, much less putting an end to it.

  23. Your in paradise now, Nigel. I broke down into tears today, not seeing you at school is heartbreaking. We will always remember you Nigel. Whether we knew you from school or if we knew you as an amazing,talented, warm hearted, handsome young man. I love you and I hope your having fun cheering up in heaven with God. Prayers go to you and your family. I love you, and I hope I see you in heaven when it’s my turn.

  24. This is a tragedy!! But there is more to the story that is not being said. The bullying was not the main cause of his suicide.

    • then what is not being said?? Why would a 13 yr old baby, and at that age you are still a baby, take his own life:(

  25. HERE IS THE SAD THING. A CHILD COSTANTANTLY HARRASSED BY THIS OTHER STUDENT FINALLY STANDS UP FOR HIMSELF AND GETS PUNISHED FOR IT WHILE THE ONE DOING ALL THE TORMENTING WILL GET “THATS NOT NICE DONT DO IT AGAIN” WHAT A CROCK OF CRAP!!!!!!! AND WHAT DOES IT TEACH OUR KIDS NOT TO STAND UP FOR THEMSELFS BECAUSE YOULL GET IN TROUBLE BUT BE A BULLY CAUSE NOTHING WILL HAPPEN TO YOU. THESE KIDS CANT GO TO THE TEACHERS OR ANY SCHOOL STAFF BECAUSE NOTHING WILL HAPPEN AT BEST THE BULLY WILL BE TALKED TO THATS ALL THEN THE BULLY IS WORSE TO THE CHILD TELLING ON THEM SO ALL THESE KIDS ARE AFRAID TO TELL SOMEONE FOR FEAR OF RETALIATION. IM GLAD HE FINALLY STOOD UP FOR HIMSELF JUST VERY UPSET AT THE FINAL OUTCOME HE DIDNT DESERVE TO HAVE TO GO THRU THAT NO CHILD SHOULD. YEA I KNOW ALL OF YOU WONT AGREE WITH ME BUT THATS WHAT MAKES THIS AMERICA YOU DONT HAVE TO. MY KIDS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN TOLD IF SOMEONE DOES SOMTHING TOO YOU KNOCK THEM ON THERE ASS THEY WILL NEVER GET IN TROUBLE FROM ME FOR STICKING UP FOR THEMSELF AND IF THEY WERE SUSPENDED FROM SCHOOL I WOULD BE AT THAT SCHOOL RAISING HELL FOR THEM BEING IN TROUBLE FOR STICKING UP FOR THEMSELF. WHAT KIND OF ADULTS ARE WE TEACHING THESE KIDS TO BE JUST COWARD DOWN AND NOT DO NOTHING ILL HATE TO SEE THAT MILITARY OH THATS RIGHT THERE WONT BE ANY CAUSE NO ONE WILL STICK UP FOR THEMSELS LET ALONE ANYONE ELSE OR THEIR COUNTRY. THERE NEED TO BE BOXES THRUOUT THE SCHOOL IN ALL CLASSROOMS HALLWAYS CAFETERIA,ETC… FOR REPORTING BULLYING WHERE ANY CHILD BEING BULLIED OR WITNESSING BULLYING CAN WRITE DOWN WHAT WAS DONE TO THEM OR WHAT WAS DONE TO ANOTHER STUDENT ANNOMOUSLY AND THE BULLYS NEED TO BE DEALY WITH HARSHLY LET THEM REALIZE THIS IS BS. I DONT KNOW IF NIGEL TOLD HIS PARENTS, HIS TEACHER OR ANY OTHER SCHOOL OFFICIAL BUT HOW SAD IS IT IF HE DID AND NOTHING WAS DON THAT THIS WAS HIS LAST RESORT MAYBE AN EXAMPLE SHOULD BE SET CHARGE THE BULLY WITH INVOLUNTARY MANSLAUGHTER MAYBE THAT WILL GET A POINT ACROSS LET THEM SEE THERE ARE CONSEQUENCES TO THEIR ACTIONS WHAT A THOUGHT CONSEQUENCES FOR THEIR ACTIONS KINDA LIKE WHEN I GREW UP THERE WAS NOT THAT MUCH BULLYING BECAUSE THERE WAS CONSEQUENCES FOR ACTIONS ILL LOVE TO SEE WHAT YOU ALL HAVE TO SY TO THAT OH YES AND BY THE WAY I AM A PARENT I AM A FATHER AND YES MY CHILDREN DO GET BULLIED UNTIL I HAVE TO SAY FORGET THE SCHOOL AND TAKE MATTERS INTO MY HANDS

    • I absolutely agree with so many things you have said. It is very sad that when he finally fought back he was punished. It is being taught to not bully yet they forget to teach to stand up for themselves. I teach mt children and like you, I will inform them that if they hit him knock they [removed] out, dont give them no reason to get up!!!! I am furious with the school board and their dam protocols that seem to ONLY protect the suspects and NOT the victims. My daughter was suspended because a boy repeadtedly kicked her when playing basketball, It was prayer that kept me from not knocking that principal out! the actions doesnt start until a sad tradgedy such as suicidal! I really truly feel for his parents and the ones that love him. I wonder how the dam bully is feeling! I hope he or she feels like [removed]!!!!

    • I totally agree with you. When I was growing up my dad taught me how to fight and he told me not to take [removed] from anyone. Kids are too sensitive these days. Too insecure. They need to be confident and defend themselves. Once kids see your not gonna take their crap they learn to back off. Parents need to teach there children not to instigate but if someone is bullying you then you dish it back. Have your kids back when they get in trouble for defending themselves. School’s have policies and kids get suspended but if your kid defends them self, they need to know they can count on you to be on their side. My dad did and I am following suit with my child. They look to us for that approval and in the right circumstances my kid has mine.

    • I agree with you in many aspects. I have 2 teens and a 7mo old. I am educated and am in constant communication with the school and my kids in reference to grades, activities etc. I think the ‘box’ idea is fantastic, I hope they put something like that to work….so that being said I am also realistic and know these little monsters are out there and they love to torment those they see as weak. So they bully kids and what not and yes, I have witnessed the fact that many go unpunished. So I have told my kids the same thing my father told me: defend yourself, stand up for what you know is right and if that means having to physically defend yourself so be it. I have showed then how to block and how to continue on if need be. I have also said never, ever pick a physical fight. But lets be honest they may one day have to encounter a fist coming at them and I hope that at that point they do not bow their head, I hope they put one foot forward and punch the aggressor hard enough to fold them. Yes, I said it. Self defense should not be punished…it’s understandable and I too would be at the school making a big deal out of what they chose to ignore. I’m prepared, I just hope it never affects my kids and they will never have a need to defend themselves in such a way. My heart goes out to the parents of this child, I wish there were words of comfort I could say though I realize none exist…

    • You should be embarrassed of yourself… It sounds like you were bullied as a child and I’m really sorry about that BUT you are an adult and listen to what you are saying. You only know what the media has told you and you, like many others follow like sheep. It’s very sad…

      • @Nina: I agree 100% with Sonia Ochoa…. You should NOT promote violence, but the “MONSTER” need to learn a lesson the hard way..
        One of my kids attend Pete Knight HS in Palmdale, the other attends Shadow HIlls Middle School. I always tell them to RESPECT the others, but NEVER let others try to take advantage of them.
        They’ve been playing soccer and practice Karate since they were 5 Years old.
        We decided to enroll both of them on Karate classes after seeing the terrible bulling situation that was occurring at the Sun Valley Middle School. Which was the main reason why we decided to move to the Antelope Valley back in 2006.
        Yes, I’ll support them 100% if they ever get in a situation where they have to defend themselves (physically or verbally) from bullying.

      • @NINA NOT THAT IT IS ANY OF YOUR BUSINESS BUT YES I WAS BULLIED AS A CHILD BUT AS MY FATHER TAUGHT ME I STOOD UP FOR MYSELF AND YES I DID GET INTROUBLE AT SCHOOL FOR IT BUT I HAD PARENTS THAT WERE SUPPORTIVE AND DID NOT PUNISH ME FOR STICKING UP FOR MYSELF. THEY WERE AT THE PRINCIPALS OFFICE ALMOST IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE INCIDENT EVEN HAVING TO LEAVE WORK,IN WHICH I THOUGHT I WAS DEAD FOR THAT UNTIL THERY WERE BOTH UP ONE SIDE AND DOWN THE OTHER OF THE PRICIPAL FOR SUSPENDING ME FOR DEFENDING MYSELF AND NOTHING HAPPENING TO THE BULLY. AFTER THAT I WAS NOT BULLIED ANYMORE CAUSE I COULD STICK UP FOR MYSELF AND MY PARENT SUPPORTED ME IN THAT I WAS TAUGHT NOT TO START THE FIGHT BUT DAMN WELL FINISH IT. AND THATS WHAT I TEACH MY CHILDREN AND THEY KNOW I WILL PROTECT THEM AT WHATEVER THE COST I HAVE GOTTEN IN BETWEEN THEM AND A HOARD OF THESE BULLIES BULLYING THEM AND THESE BULLIES THINK THEY ARE UNTOUCHABLE TELLING ME THEYLL JUST CALL THE POLICE ON ME AND HAVE ME PUT IN JAIL, THEY THINK THEY CAN BEAT ON AN ADULT AND NOTHING WILL HAPPEN TO THEM THATS HOW THESE BULLIES THINK THERE UNTOUCHABLE I HAVE GONE THRU SCHOOL PEACE OFFICER COURSES AND I DO KNOW THE LAWS AND THAT IS NOT THE CASE. I SHOW MY KIDS THAT EVEN WHEN CONFRONTED BY MULTIPLE KIDS, WHICH IS HOW THESE BULLIES WORK IN PACKS, DO NOT BACK DOWN STAND UP FOR THEMSELFS NO MATTER WHAT THE OUTCOME, I HAVE THERE BACK NO MATTER WHAT. WHY DONT YOU LISTEN TO WHAT I AM SAYING STAND UP FOR YOURSELF, STAND UP FOR OTHERS BE A DECENT HUMAN BEING. I AM NOT RAISING CHILDREN I AM RAISING ADULTS WHO WILL ONE DAY BE PARENTS THEMSELFS THERE IS NO REASON I SHOULD BE EMBARRASSED OF THAT. ALSO TO LET YOU KNOW I KNOW ALOT MORE ABOUT THE SITUATION THAN YOU THINK. NOT FROM THE MEDIA MY SON GOES TO HILLVIEW HE WAS FRIENDS WITH NIGEL SO DONT TELL ME I DONT KNOW ANYTHING BUT WHAT THE MEDIA IS TELLING ME MY SON HAS BEEN IN TEARS SINCE THAT DAY OVER THIS. WHAT I THINK IS SAD IS THE FACT THAT YOU ARE PROTECTING THE BULLY. THE BULLY IS THE ONE BEING PROTECTED WHILE A FAMILY HAS BEEN DESTROYED BY THIS PROTECTED BULLY THATS WHATS SAD

        • I have a child that attends Hillview also. She witnessed Nigel(followed by a group of his friends)attack another boy who didn’t fight back. I can’t imagine what Nigel’s family must be going through and I have prayed for him and his family. I by no means condone bullying in any way shape or form but you as an adult should set an example. I hope you don’t speak this way in front of your children. From what I have seen posted here I believe the other child does need protection and not from children but from some of these adults.

          • @ G WHAT SPEAK ABOUT MY FEELING WOW I GUESS YOUR NOT SUPPOSED TO DO THAT NOW. I HIDE NOTHING FROM MY CHILDREN AND I DO SPEAK THIS WAY IN FRON OF THEM AND ENCOURAGE THEM TO SPEAK OPENLY IN FRONT OF ME WITH NOTHING TO HIDE. I GUESS THATS WRONG ALSO ACCORDINT TO SOCIETY “DONT LET YOUR FEELING BE KNOW JUST HIDE THEM ALL” THEN SOMTHIHNG LIKE THIS HAPPENS. I TEACH MY CHILDREN TO TREAT OTHERS THE WAY YOU WANT TO BE TREATED BUT ACCORDING TO YOU I GUESS THATS WRONG TOO

  27. Wow, this is so sad. There needs to be more investigation on these kids, because it just don’t seem right. What are these kids into on their spare time.

  28. Nigel was in my class last year before he moved. He was an amazing, loving, caring guy, no matter what everyone thought. No one gave him a chance to show the real him. Who ever bullied him better be ashamed of themselves; he was an amazing kid.

    I pray God is holding Nigel in his arms.
    God Bless you Nigel Hardy, you were a great kid

  29. I FEEL FOR THE STAFF AT CRAZY OTTOS’ IN KERN COUNTY…
    THAT RESTAURANT CHAIN ALWAYS SEEMS TO ATTRACT TRAGIC EVENTS!
    MAY YOUNG MR. HARDY REST IN PEACE NOW..!

    • Of all the unique places in the AV… why Crazy Otto’s in Rosamond? something up with that…

  30. You honestly can’t stop bullying it’s plain and simple. Yes I feel horrible that the kid killed himself but he didn’t have to go through it he could of seeked help. Bullying can’t be stopped because social media dragging on and on with pictures, words via text. Kids are ruthless and this poor kid who was only 13 and had a life to live my prayers go out to his family but in this day and age you really have to watch your self.

    • My Dad always told me to let stuff roll off your back like water rolling off a ducks back. Ever since he said that I would think about what he said and let it roll off, because I learned I can’t change what people said to me, but I could learn how to not let it affect me.

  31. I knew Nigel as one of my students on my bus route, it just breaks my heart to here this!! He was not a bad kid, but he was still a kid. I’m in tears to hear this! My heart goes out to the family!!! Gone but NOT forgotten!!!!

  32. I knew Nigel by person he went to my school which was avon and by the looks of it he switched school and this is so much for me to take in .. I cant believe he is gone .. REST IN PARAFISE NIGEL ! WE LOVE YOU ! I wish i could have cheered with you ! )’:

  33. This is a very sad day and my heart is very heavy over the loss of this young boy that choose to be in an activit at school that caused him to be bullied. Shame on [removed] for behaving in a narrow minded manor, being spiteful, and being such a hater. Shame on Hillviewide School principal for allowing a victim of a fight, and defending himself to be suspended. So many times the policy is to suspend both parties in a fight merely because of the laziness of the administrators on site, it takes to much of their time to find out what exactly happened. It is earlier to suspend both. Shame on the school district for cutting back on Counselors at each individual site because of budget cuts. You have other choices to make cut backs . You are suppose to have the students best interest and it is my opinion that these young students need a qualified counselor on each campus. Not pushing paper or making state testing schedules for ths school, but to actually have a open door policy to just be there for the students that need to talk cnd confide in , a true blue counselor . Shame on the Palmdale police department too. You have in so many cases not been effective or responded in a professional way you have let are community down in this case and in many others. If your not interested in doing your job properly hits men and women that actually want to do the job and need the job. We are failing our young. Things need to change. I am so sorry previous Nigel, we weren’t there for you. I personally will try and do better.

    • ALEE HAS IT ALL RIGHT. THE SCHOOL DROPPED THE BALL BY NOT TAKEING CARE OF THE BULLYING. HE WENT TO THE OFFICE SEVERAL TIMES AND WAS ESSENTIALLY TOLD TO IGNORE THE BOY OR SOME OTHER CRAP. THEN WHEN NIGEL TRIED TO DEFEND HIMSELF FROM A KID WITH A WEAPON, NIGEL GETS SUSPENDED BECAUSE OF THE ‘NO TOLLERANCE’ POLICY. WHY COULDN’T THE SCHOOL OFFICIALS USE SOME COMMON SENCE? MUST NOT EXIST ANYMORE. NIGEL IS NOW IN THE ARMS OF CHRIST AND HIS PAIN IS OVER FOREVER. I PRAY GOD GIVES THE FAMILY AND HIS FRIENDS STRENGTH AND PEACE. THEN WITH THE PALMDALE SHERRIFS DEPT., I HAVE SOME REAL ISSUES. BACK IN OCTOBER, A YOUNG MAN WAS HIT AND KILLED WHILE RIDING HIS BICYCLE. THE DEPUTYS ONLY INTERVIEWED THE DRIVER OF THE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE. NOT A QUESTION TO ANY OF THE WITNESES. LAST MONTH OR SO ANOTHER YOUNG MAN WAS HIT BY A HIT AND RUN. THIS WAS INTENTIONAL. THE WOMAN DRIVING (WITH A TODDLER IN THE BACK) MADE 3 ATTEMPTS TO HIT THE KID AND THEN THE FOURTH HE WAS RAN DOWN. THE WOMAN EVEN DID FIGURE 8s IN THE MIDDLE OF AVE. R TO TRY AND HIT HIM. WHEN THE DEPUTYS CAME AND INTERVIEWED THE BOY, THEY SAID IT WAS HIS FAULT BECAUSE HE ANTAGONIZED THE WOMAN (THE BOY FLIPPED THE WOMAN OFF AFTER SHE ALMOST HIT HIM IN A PARKING LOT). THERE IS NO WAY THAT SHE COULD FEEL HIM TO BE A THREAT, IF THAT WAS THE CASE. HE WOULDN’T BE 100 LBS SOAKING WET. NOT LONG AFTER THAT ANOTHER BOY WAS HIT BY A SCHOOL BUS. THIS WAS HANDLED AND BEING INVESTIGATED BY THE HIGHWAY PATROL THE RIGHT WAY. THEY ACCTUALLY DID THEIR JOB. ALL IN ALL I THINK THE SHERRIFS DEPT JUST DOESN’T WANT THE PAPER WORK IN THE OTHER INCIDENTS. I AM SO GLAD THAT THERE ARE MORE YEARS BEHIND ME THAN IN FRONT OF ME……………..

  35. I can’t believe your gone); we all miss you so much! A million people including me were crying a lot. Some people had to go home cause they were crying so much. Please come back ); R.I.P

  36. It’s sad that the people that are being bullied get punished but the people that are bullies never get punished I think that the school need to be serious about bullying this is gone too far. RIP to a young man that had enough. My prayer go out to his family and friends. I think that the school should not allow kids that don’t live in the area to attend Hillview.

  37. We have all vented and said things about this situation that was harsh or not accurate in facts. O.K., what can we do now so that this does not happen again in our schools in the A.V.? I am willing to work for a better solution.

      • Thank you, What I didn’t post was that after picking up my own child at Hillview yesterday. I drove around looking for the young boy myself with my child’s help to spot him. I got home at 6:15 pm. I wanted to find him more than anything,even if it meant me being in harms way. I’m not just a talker, I tried. I’m no one important, just a mother. I wish I had stayed out a little longer, perhaps I could have found him and held him in my arms and told him it’s o.k.

        • I cant believe the Westside School District is not taking this seriously. The super said that they dont plan on doing anything about it or investigate it. They just sent grief counslers to the school. I thought when I moved to the westside from the east, where my son was getting bullied , it wpuld be better, I always praise the westside District, but after why the super said, I am so sadened and ashamed of them.

          • Im not so sure. Of course the LA Times has never misquoted or misrepresented the AV. Any chance of they here?

          • The counselors WERE NOT ALLOWED on campus, today…the district is not being truthful regarding the counselors… maybe the district will allow them, tomorrow?…

          • The counselors were there all day. All you have to do is call the district and ask them if they were there. Why on earth would they keep counselors out? That makes zero sense from any perspective. Everyone is shattered by this incident and we need to all be supportive of folks that are really hurting.

        • For those who are interested, There will be a candlelight vigil for Nigel at 7 pm on Thursday, location is supposed to be at Hillview Middle School. However,that may change in view of school policies.

          • How about having it in front of Westside Union School District in Quartz Hill
            Or
            At Lane Park by Joe Walker Middle School.

            It may not be at his school, but it will still draw attention to the issue at both alternative locations.

            Having it at Lane Park near Joe Walker would be a way for everyone to show support for all of the children in Jr High School in the district.
            I know there are kids at Joe Walker being bullied too.. This may be a way to show respect for Nigel and solidarity with the kids most impacted by bulling.

          • M. Poole I am there! I also would like to get on board on how to STOP this. I cant put my faith in the schools anymore, my daughter was a victim of bullying and the first time i was not aware of it, she brought a weapon to school for protection and got suspended, she repeatedly told the principal and nothing was done UNTIL she branshed the weapon…second time she fought back and kicked the boys behind got suspended then. I am all for ceasing the bullying and PROTECTING the victims as well as teaching and counseling the bully. I hope to see you thursday and approach you then. Thanks

          • I will certainly be there. I am in touch with many of the students at Hillview and many have transportation concerns. I think Westside Union School District would be the best location, so that all can come. However, most of the students will contact me in some way and let me know what they think about the location and I will post tomorrow afternoon. THANKS

    • I agree! What can we do to make sure there isn’t another incident such as this very sad one?! When an incident like this happens everyone talks about doing something about it. We need more doers, and not talkers! This should NOT have occurred!!! It angers me, because we entrust our children(to all who are in charge at our schools)to be safe in their school. I believe(as a tax payer)that our money should go into more security, and not just any security, but trained in the areas that are needed mainly Bullying!!!!

      • One thing all parents can do is attend the board meetings or school meetings…..i work with PTA at an elementary school and its sad when we have periodic meetings (some have been held at Hillview) and parents DO NOT support these meetings. How else will we be heard?? We need to get more involved!

  38. RIP young Nigel. Life must have seemed so cruel and confusing for you to take your own life. I am sorry for your friends and family.

  39. So, so sad. Maybe future events like this could be avoided if the middle (and elementary) schools would add guidance counselors to their staff. Neither the Lancaster or Palmdale School districts have counselors on staff for the students. Kids in K-8 have needs that a counselor could help with – offering both prevention and intervention services through presentations and group activities – that would address problems such as bullying, peer pressure, death in the family, parent in lock-up, etc.
    Counseling positions were eliminated with budget cuts, and again, our children are suffering for it. :o(

  40. According to The Los Angeles Times, he was found at Crazy Otto’s in Rosamond. I wonder how he got there. As far as I am aware, Kern Regional Transit runs from Lancaster to Rosamond. I know there are always “shoulda-coulda-wouldas” but perhaps we should be sending alerts to transportation agencies when searching for missing persons (particularly children).

    • I work with a guy that works at crazy ottos… He said his boss saw him walking on Sierra hwy but didn’t know about the situation. I’m guessing he walked… He got to crazy ottos around 8. Such a sad sad story… It really breaks my heart because I would NEVER EVER want something like this to happen to my baby. It makes me want to give a million hugs and kisses to my little one.

  41. There’s two sides to every story yet everyone is focused on just the one. If you only knew the whole story although the end would still be a sad one I wonder if you all would still as ADULTS be trashing a CHILD! Not everything is as innocent as it seems. There were facts left out of this story I am sure to spare the parents on all parties sides but hey thanks everyone for making sure THAT DIDN’T HAPPEN! Wonder where the kids learn to act this way?? Oh that’s right it’s the schools fault??!! No, you all did a great job of being examples here today …. Prayers are all that should be said right now , nothing else can bring closure or hope to this situation. By blasting minors on a public website you have all given these students more ammo to now harm and bully another CHILD and yet you still do t have all the facts … So how will you feel what will you say to the other boys parents when the a student reacts to your cements with violence?? Great example

    • I agree totaly with u and was trying to put something like this up earlier….blaming anyone (bullies, school, parents) is too late for this child but everyone in any child’s life can still make a difference whether its a school bus driver, teacher, school aide, school friends…..and most of all parents. It seems like everyone posting here and on FB knew he was being bullied but no one did or said anything about it before?? But back to your comment, i have heard things from my kids and other friends kids who know both parties involved in Fridays incident and who saw what happened that day. i just put things together after my daughter told me about this Friday evening and monday after the lock down. i dont know if its all kid’s rumors but i really feel bad that someone else is being blamed in a way, and i hope that child doesnt feel he has to pay a price for what happened to Nigel. I am so sorry for what happened to him and like everyone else wished he would have come home. my heart goes out to his family, and all he kids at Hillview…..this will be a tough week for them.

  42. I did speak with someone from the school and perhaps some facts about the situation was not clear at the time of my earlier posts. However, reading what the students are saying, tells me the truth is somewhere in the middle. Nevertheless, My heart still mourns for a life lost.

    • The media is sometimes a terrible thing… People love to gossip and things are usually construed. The school, the authorities and the boys family know what happened and instead of trying to lay blame people should pray for the boys family and their terrible loss

  43. Thoughts and prayers to the family of this young man. Most people have been affected at one point in their life from a suicide. maybe a family member or friend. This Sunday there is a suicide prevention and awareness fundraiser at Jethawks stadium. The fundraiser is just by a ticket to the game. Tickets are available for $8.00 each in section 203 Game time is 2:00 Pm
    call Anna 661-713-6803 or 661-794-2342

    • Mark,I am encouraged to hear this. This community is affected by suicide but we don’t hear much about it up here. I would like to see a support group here for survivors because they need ongoing support.

      • thanks sik, my daughter-in-law has been working with a group and trying to get events together. they have this sundays game and an aug 25th game for the fundraiser. they also are putting together a 3k walk for october i think. but its a subject some people dont like to talk about.

        • As My Father-in law has said I am working with a national organization called the AFSP and we are doing a fundraiser this SUnday April 21st at the jethawks stadium and another on the 25th of august. Myself and the AFSP will be having a suicide prevention and awareness walk called ‘Out of the Darkness” on October 5th and you can register at http://www.afsp.donordrive.com. The need to raise awareness and let others know that there is help out there is great in all areas. My family has personally been affected by suicide. This is a very sad and tragic event and I hope people can see that and see how to help to make others aware of this. Once again my thoughts and prayers are with the family and I hope that they can find a way to honour their loved ones memory.

  44. Bulling needs to stop seriously parents need to talk to their children and teaching them that you dont make fun of anybody my this yoing boy rest in peace, yhis school needs to do something about bulling also find thise kids that were bulling him and have a serious talk to them to show them what their actions have done to others bulling is no joke.

    • I absolutely agree with your comment I think the person Involoed in bullying this young man needs to get some counseling.

    • Bullying has been around since time immortal and will continue as long as children exist. The major culprit here is idiot Zero Tolerance policies that treat the victim just like the aggressor. PSD, along with nearly all school districts have these idiot policies.
      Do not raise your child to be a punching bag for other aggressive little turds. When walking away, they never stop and then its time to stand up for yourself.
      My prayers are with Nigel and his family, God be with you.

  45. It does not matter who was right or wrong. An angel has gone home too soon. What it does show is that the teachers and staff at Hill View Middle School need to be trained in how to handle situations like this. The districts school policies and need to be reviewed and properly changed were needed. Yes some cases should remain private, but not in the event of bullying(if this was the situation). We must also remember that a parent never wants to believe that their little angel would ever do any thing bad. Which is not the case some times. We must remember that our children are a reflection of their home environment whether good or bad. May God give comfort and peace to Nigel’s parents.

  46. My questiosn is, Were the parents(s) if this child aware that their sone was known for being a trouble maker or bully? And if so why did they not have a conference with the school to try and eliminate it? I think one of the major problems in todays society is that most households have no disipline for their children anymore because the kids are told in school that they can call the sheriffs if they are spanked. Growing up I threatedn to call the sherrifs on my parents for spanking me and my father handed me the phone and told me to go ahead. And that if I did that I would never be able to see them or my siblings again. That was enough to scare me straight. Parents now a days are more afraid of their children then the children being afraid of the parents.
    And for those blaming the father of this sweet boy for having a gun in the home. It is not his fault. We underestimate the knowledge of children today. They are so much smarter then we give them credit for. They will find a way to get ahold of what ever they want. RIP sweet Nigel. I pray that your family has the help and support that they need during this difficult time.

    • I feel the same way.Where were the parents and the father has the right to own a firearm.The school should be held responsible as well as the parents of the children involved.My child goes to Hillview Middle school and was being bullied. When I spoke to the principal and asked for a meeting with the other parents my request was not granted. To this day my child still has a problem with one of the other children.If the school officials took the right steeps and followed proper protocol Nigel may still be with us today.May he rest in peace and may GOD be with his parents.My heart goes out to you.

      • i agree with you guys people take these jobs at schools somtimes just for the job and not becuse they really want to work with kids and help find soulutions to problems or becuse oh my god forbbid they have to deal with the drama of parents and students fighting but thats what these jobs call for i remember getting bullied at a school in palmdale i was fat and these boys threw hot dogs at me or whateer they had on hand any givin day of the week lol hit me and called me name in the 3rd 4th 5th grade same school i told and noting was done and one day the boy pushed me and called me names i fell and got up and kicked him in the shin not even hard he told on me can you guess at my suprise i was the one that got suspended what in the hell turns got his mom worked for the school disrict but im way older now and learned to be brave but its sad when schools are so unfair it dose lead kids to think of killing them selfs i know i did but in my mind if i did theyd win and thats somting that is worse then death in my eyse

      • It is just unacceptable that the school would not grant a conference with parents of both children involved. Most of the parents of these children that are bullying have no idea what their kids are even doing during the day. It just blows my mind. I am thankful at this time my children are not old enough for school yet but when they are how am I supposed to trust the school system to make sure that they are safe while in their care.

      • My kid was a new kid at the school. He was targeted by bullies, and when he could no longer tolerate the bullying, he took actions to defend himself; he got suspended. As a new kid, he was labeled as “trouble” by the current principal and staff. My kid was a good student at his previous school, until he transferred to Hillview. My kid was suspended 2x from the bullying incident when he defended himself, this was after my kid told the principal that a group of kids keep coming up threatening to fight him. We were warned that on the 3rd suspension, he will have to go to another school. My kid’s attitude changed and no longer shared with us and had anger issues. We began to think our kid was being harassed by the very adult that governed him because they labeled him “trouble” and or ignored when he was being bullied, this opinion was based ont previous conversations we had with the principal. We finally transferred our kid to another school, he is doing well, and they find him smart and respectful. This is a shame as I am a property owner in the area and my tax dollars go to the very school my kid could not attend. I presume the principal and staff continued to do business as usual; I am not insinuating that this tragic event regarding Nigel was foreseeable, in my opinion they could have done something to prevent it, knowing that bullying does exist at this school. The school has a zero tolerance policy against fights; however, they should have a zero tolerance policy against bullying, and have a more common sense approach in punishment. A bully in general is the aggressor, when the victim finally decides that enough is enough, the victim will eventually defend himself. A victim should not incur the same punishment as the bully. Better yet, they should have allowed the parents to have a conference. The school needs to re-evaluate their policy in not allowing the parents to mediate the conflicts with their kids. We were not allowed to or given the opportunity to discuss my kids’ issues with the bully and his parents when we requested a conference; we feel it would have helped. We pray for Nigel’s family, that God gives them strength and comfort during their bereavement. We also pray for the other family.

  47. So saddened it came to this end. I hope you now have the peace you were desperately looking for. I wish I could have done something to prevent this outcome. You will not be forgotten. HUGS

  48. To all who have chosen to name the CHILDREN involved I wish you would respect their families and and the fact that they are all MINORS!! It’s sad on all parts, but unfortunately unless YOU were involved with the incident that took place on Friday or yesterday directly you have no cause to speculate WHO is to blame! They are all CHILDREN!! Everyone has their opinions and yes we all mourn with the family for their loss but to call another CHILD evil or curse him with having to live with this the rest of his life , I assure you this incident will have its own impact on him and all involved… UNLESS YOU JAVE ALL THE FACTS AND I ASSURE YOU THIS STORY DOES NOT HAVE ALL THE FACTS U NEED TO BE RESPECTFUL TO BOTH FAMILIES AND REMEMBER these are CHILDREN you are blasting with hurtful words and accusations!!! May God be with all involved and true discernment be used before slanderous cements affect yet another CHILDS life.

    • My child attends Hillview, she is in the 8th grade and has experienced the bully’s that she sits in classes with all day. I have made phone calls and have gone down there to speak to the principle . Yet this child was allowed to go to school and call my daughter names and has told her ” you should kill yourself” thank God she comes home and talks to me and has the support of other family members as well. It did get to the point she started to cut herself, we got her counseling and it has helped tremendously! My heart aches for what has happened here. My daughter was not best friends with him, but they were friends. She is in disbelief. The school does very little to support us parents whom bring it to their attention. The old saying ” sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me” words hurt! In fact, they kill!!
      Us parents need to come together and show our children how important it is to be kind, say kind words. No more hate and cruelty! This poor sole will not see his 8th grade graduation, his parents don’t get to see him off to prom or walk across the stage as he receives his High School diploma. It’s over. All our children’s life’s have forever changed. I’m very sad for us all.

  49. I pray for the family and loved ones of Nigel. How can I say “Rest in peace” for a child so young, who found the only way out was to take his life. Nevertheless, I have no other words but to say “Rest In Peace Sweet Wonderful Child” However, let us not forget his family and come together if need or asked and support them during this hellish ordeal.My haunting thoughts are why was in necessary to call the sheriff Friday after the boys had their disagreement. From what I understand that is what really made Nigel afraid and to suspend the victim of bullying, I don’t understand that policy. I’m certain Nigel felt sadness,alone, and confused in his last few days on this earth. Hillview Middle School failed and today they offer grief counseling. I want no one talking to my child from that school about grief. The bottom line is, errors was made Friday and this is the end result.

    • The boy attacked another student (that did not fight back) on friday and the sheriff was called because he had a weapon… You know what they say about assuming.

      • What you are saying is not true, I know several students that witnessed the so call fight. No weapons!

    • M. Poole, I’ve read many of your comments and with all do respect, you really don’t know what you’re talking about. I suggest you call or visit the school to get the facts.

        • Children have received awareness and warnings of school bullying and any child that ignore these warnings should be suspended or even expelled.This form of conduct will continue until serious punishment is enforced. It saddens me that any child would feel the need to take his or her life due to another child’s abusive conduct, rather it be verbal or physical. I pray for Nigel, his family, and friends.

  50. Now is not the time to point fingers and lay blame. I am praying for the families and everyone involved. No one is perfect by any means and no one wants to see this outcome. Instead of pointing fingers and bullying each other online why don’t we set an example and treat each other with respect regardless of the different opinions we may have and PRAY for everyone involved. I’m not trying to judge it just breaks my heart that this even happened PERIOD and I pray that this tragedy would not go ignored and that we could all take a lesson away from this. Just my 2 cents.

    • I agree 100% with you, it’s time to come together as a community , talk to your children about bullying and let them know you are here for them.. A lot a people are @ fault , but its not the time to point fingers, lets come together and talk to our children, communications and love is what’s needed.. R.i.p Nigel

      • This is a terrible tragedy that could of been avoided if the
        School officials stepped in and talked to him instead of disciplining
        Him when he was sticking up for himself because he was being tormented.
        Thats really sad that our children are put on the hands of these schools andthey
        trust them and this poor young boy was made to feel like the one doing something wrong
        and was obviously crying out for help and the school didnt listen.
        So sad and if anyone is to blame its the school…. not only did this bad choice
        by the school rip one family apart..the other boy involved is going to be tormented also..

        Our school system needs to start getting there crap together and put these kids first

        • That doesn’t make any sense. How can the school be to blame? Do you know whether or not they provided counseling to this child? Do you honestly thing that they “allowed” this young boy to be chronically picked on? Do you know anything at all about this situation besides hearsay?

          Rules our in place at schools for a reason. When a student breaks the rules, they have to face the consequences. That is no different than what you would have to do as an adult. The student was suspended because he engaged in a fight with another student. Fighting is not the solution to bullying and can not be an excuse to justify violence. It would be contradictory if it was. As a mandated reporter, the school personnel would have contacted the appropriate agency if it was appropriate.

          I’ve been a teacher for over a decade and I know that bullying does indeed happen on every school campus every single day. I spent countless hours organizing the Not in Our Schools anti-bullying campaign in an effort to bring awareness of the devastation such a cruel act causes as well as promote kindness. Kids can be mean and hateful and sometimes their hate can spread like a wildfire. It is the kind, loving, and passionate school personnel who dedicate their lives to prevent that fire from happening while filling their young minds with knowledge.

          I hardly think the school would let someone go who simply cared and listened to the children. There has to be more to the story than that. Someone who takes the time to listen and care should also understand that discipline is justified when warranted. There has to be balance.

          Unfortunately, bullying happens everywhere in society and has for as long as humans have been on earth and will probably continue until we no longer exist. Instead of blaming the schools, I ask that you reflect on a quote by Ganghi and “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

  51. SO so sad. RIP Nigel. We as a society – we as a community failed Nigel. To the one reader who said it wasn’t until 20 years ago or so that all this started happening. You are absolutely right. About the same time technology took off. Too often we all act like the very machines we utilize every day in our lives. People in general have become so detached from others that it unfortunately makes situations like this more common place, easier. It has become so easy for people to talk their trash and incite acts of violence without ever seeing the TRUE impact at the time but rather the end result such as this horrible tragedy. Generally speaking, society has become such a hustle and bustle that parents are so often out of the picture leaving the “raising” of their children to coaches, teaches, counselors and advisers. WE as a society need to get back in touch with peoples feelings, peoples emotions. Face to face not texting or emailing. Again my heart breaks and bleeds that poor Nigel felt that taking his life was the only way out. I plead to every parent out there, PLEASE hug your child today. Tell your child TODAY how much you love them. Tell your child TODAY that you will always be there for them. Turn off the phones and computers for 15 minutes and discuss face to face with your child just how much they mean to you. TODAY there are parents that won’t have that opportunity ever again.

    • Chris,you are a breath of fresh air. Get kids off face book,my space and text messaging. Take a look.at their Facebook pages and see the kind of inane.stuff they write. Take back your kids.

      • amen to that im 26 young but wow im not even ready for most of these web things there should be a age limit or charge like a monthly fee soo only people that have a card and are over 18 may have a fb my space and what not just saying

  52. Nigel Will Be Dearly Missed .
    He Was A Great Friend Nd Always Knew How To Bring Out The Best In Someone . It’s Tradgic That Such An Incudent Had To Happen . My Prayers Go Out To His Parents Who Lost Their Son Who Had His Whole Life Ahead Of Him . Nd Now No One Will Be Able To See His Accomplishments In Life . He Was The Type Of Person Who Was Brave . That’s The Best Word To Describe Him . Nd Now It’s Sad To Believe That The Nigel I Knew , A Young 13 Year Old Boy , Commited Suicide , Nd Now No One Is Ever Going To See Him . May Nigel Rest In Peace .

  53. You can blame these 13 yr. old KIDS all you want but where the hell are there parents in all this? how does a 13yr old get his PARENTS gun. don’t put blame on [removed] for this i think Nigels dad should take all the blame for having his gun avalible for his son to get. All you people (ADULTS) are doing is BULLING [removed].

    • You are right why would the parents show their kids were they keep their gun that gun should of been no where were the kids can get to it.

    • There is plenty of Blame to go around, from the School to the kids to both sets of parents, How the boy got is fathers gun has not been mentioned yet? if the in fact the Gun was not under Lock/Key then I am sure the Father will have whatever charges they feel necessary filed against him, although I would think that losing a son would be punishment enough! An he will be haunted by this as long as he lives if in fact the weapon was left in the open? I do not know either of these young men, one who will not be bullied any more if in fact that was the case? and the other will have to live with whatever contributing factor he may or may not have had for the rest of his life! And if need be I hope the other young man seeks and gets whatever help he may need? The school should have done much more in this. From what I have been told by both my wife who was there as well as Law enforcement friends it was not handled the way it should’ve been! We as a society need to take back our way of life and raise our kids to be respectful to all! period! and they all need to learn the value of human life! sooner than later! Most kids who are the aggressors continue this path all through life unless nipped in the but! this young man if in fact was the aggressor was fortunate that he was not on the receiving end during all of this, as most of the time happens! I hope for peace with both parents and families!

      • The boy that Nigel attacked last week hadn’t had any incidents with him prior. Sadly, there was obviously more going on in Nigel’s life. Now the community seems to have become a mob of bullies themselves- foaming at the mouth ready to take down yet another child… This mob mentality ruins lives. And if you think your child or a child that you love and hold dear to your heart hasn’t ever called someone names or acted hateful to another child you are BLIND!

    • Yes the gun should have been unavailable and the Dad will have to live with that the remainder of his life.The fact remains when someone has decied to end their life,they will do it regardless,whther they step in front of a train(happens here not infrequently)or jump off a building ,as happened in La Crescenta last year.

  54. MY heart aches for this family as Nigel didn’t make it. Please comfort them and kind words only. This child felt he had no alternative but to die. I hope his friends will remember him sweetly and kindly and perhaps his sacrifice will make them be kinder to those who are different. So very sad!!

    • Very Sad ending to this. No words can be said to ease the pain the parents family and friends must be going thru, I hope the school today has a very open and frank talk with the studentbody, There is no reason it should have lead to this. Very Sorry for everyones loss.

  55. I will say once again that i don’t believe that bullying is the main cause to why children are having these violent outburst. Bullying has been going on in schools for years, why is it that only in the past 20 or so years that it has resulted in children going on murderous rampages, or suicide missions? I believe their are other elements at work in these unfortunate situations. Furthermore i believe the media has played a huge part in convincing parents that its not that their child may have some type of mental, emotional, chemical imbalance or problem. But that instead it is solely the bullies fault for their childs violent actions. I do not agree with a child being bullied, i was bullied very harshly when i was a kid and it effected me deeply and was very hurtful. So I’m not condoning the actions of bullies. But i feel that a CHILD that can pick up a weapon, and commence to killing him/herself or other children, all because they were bullied..has some other serious issues going on and being bullied was the straw that broke the camels back, but not at all the source of the problem. And although the child that was bullying him/her is definitely in the wrong for bullying, i think its horrible that they are being had to accept responsibility for a persons death. And also deal with the ridicule from the media and other adults as if they are too not children. Especially when studies have proven that most children who do the bullying, are dealing with low self esteem, insecurities, and problems in the home. But this is ignored, and now this child at such a young age is being blamed and forced to except responsibility for the death of another human being, and i don’t believe that they are to blame. We need to find out what is going on with these sad children, and do whatever we can to help them. But unfortunately blaming it all on bullying is not the answer.

    • “Take your victim as they are.” This is common law. My daughter knew Niguel and said he was a very sweet boy. Some people have a thicker skin. Whatever was done to this boy was obviously very hurtful and while you may have handled bullying differently, it does not mean that Niguel had any type of mental disability. Teenagers in general take everything to an extreme and lack the maturity to understand that “this too shall pass.” I guarantee this [removed] happened just as much in the past. The difference now is that media is on top of EVERYTHING and now we hear about it every single last case. It isn’t that it didn’t used to happen. Bullying is VERY serious and should be illegal. People absolutely need to be held responsible for their behavior, yes, even when they are 13. At 13, I knew bullying was wrong and that it could hurt people. My heart goes out to this family. Such a tragedy!!!

    • School shootings are not a new phenomenon. They have been happening as long as we have had compulsory schooling and probably further back. Allowing one child to chronically pick on another is deplorable. Suspending a depressed child because he is “despondent” is a failure of the school. Mental health and social services should have been alerted immediately and this boy should have been taken into care.

      • I agree this school is to blame…..i hope they can sleep at night knowing there bad choice
        ruined people’s lives
        Very angry that we trust these schools with our children for most of the day and the school
        officials dont pay attention
        I used to work at this school and was let go cause i took the time to listen
        and care about them and was only suppose to be a disciplinarian.
        Sickens me:(

        • That doesn’t make any sense. How can the school be to blame? Do you know whether or not they provided counseling to this child? Do you honestly thing that they “allowed” this young boy to be chronically picked on? Do you know anything at all about this situation besides hearsay?

          Rules our in place at schools for a reason. When a student breaks the rules, they have to face the consequences. That is no different than what you would have to do as an adult. The student was suspended because he engaged in a fight with another student. Fighting is not the solution to bullying and can not be an excuse to justify violence. It would be contradictory if it was. As a mandated reporter, the school personnel would have contacted the appropriate agency if it was appropriate.

          I’ve been a teacher for over a decade and I know that bullying does indeed happen on every school campus every single day. I spent countless hours organizing the Not in Our Schools anti-bullying campaign in an effort to bring awareness of the devastation such a cruel act causes as well as promote kindness. Kids can be mean and hateful and sometimes their hate can spread like a wildfire. It is the kind, loving, and passionate school personnel who dedicate their lives to prevent that fire from happening while filling their young minds with knowledge.

          I hardly think the school would let someone go who simply cared and listened to the children. There has to be more to the story than that. Someone who takes the time to listen and care should also understand that discipline is justified when warranted. There has to be balance.

          Unfortunately, bullying happens everywhere in society and has for as long as humans have been on earth and will probably continue until we no longer exist. Instead of blaming the schools, I ask that you reflect on a quote by Ganghi and “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

          • How can the bullied child be suspended? Of course this falls on the shoulders of the staff! Shame on you Hillview! Hence the reason, I pulled my kids from public schools in the AV and put them in private. Open your eyes people, Highland and Quartz Hill high schools are run by security, not by educators. It is disgusting what happened yesterday! I pray for the parents of Nigel and his fellow students. I also, pray for the bullies that are partly to blame. Partly? Yes, not only are they to blame, but their ideals came from someone…Parents! Also, the “teaching staff” at Hillview!

        • I understand what you are saying. It’s just not about this situation, It’s about listening to the students when they come to you with a problem, making an effort and going the extra mile to try to help them. Most children already feel that know one cares (for reasons we may never know) However, one person, just one can make a difference.

    • I agree, i look at it this way and if I am wrong well its still my thought
      20 years ago , we took god out of the class rooms!, 20 years ago we as parents stopped disciplining there kids for fear of going to jail, thus preventing kids from learning right from wrong, either at home or at school as school punishment was also outlawed! The computer age and the lack of caring parent/children having kids that have no idea ow to raise a child without help from mom & dad. Parents that in general really only have kids to ensure they continue to collect there extra government subsidies, whether or not they can support them! Family values are long gone as now days many single parent families try and juggle both worlds and typically fail in one or the other! The media too is to blame! as it is always breaking news no matter what state or school is involved. The main fact that many do not look at is everyone says this is happening more and more? well maybe it is? or maybe that there is such huge media exposure for anything gun related it appears to be an epidemic? back in the day you hardly heard of what happened say on the easy cost at a school, mainly due to there only being so many stations and time slots. unlike today, news media has overtaken todays society 10 fold! back in the day the only time a t.v station would interrupt a broadcast for “Breaking news” so to speak was if something tragic in the nation happened I.E president assassination etc. They wouldn’t take 20 seconds of video footage like now days and loop it over and over again to fill a news hour or several hours! as seen most recently with the Boston footages. The media should stick to local breaking news! unless world war 3 is happening or something major. A 3 story commercial fire in New jersey is not breaking news for us out here in CA! I hope that both of these parents can come to a mutual understanding and show support for one another. And hope to god somewhere in the future we learn from the mistakes of the past 20 years how we raise/teach/discipline and instill better morlas to the children of the future. and to teach them compassion and the value of Human life, instead the value of possessions!

    • Rachael, your words are so true. Results from bullying did not just start 20 yrs ago, it’s the social media that brings it forward. I as a child (in 1964) was bullied by a girl in grade school for along time. I did not want to go to school and “be caught” by her, bumped into lockers or called a chicken. I was not one to fight, so I tried to ignore the bashings and walk away….I was never one to hit or fight anyone, you just don’t ….till one day I decided she was not going to dictate my life and was tired of being scared all the time. I calmy waited until she was done “Shreading” my ego and shoving me around, I turned around & decked her…1 punch…when she finally got up, she just walked away & NEVER talked smack to me again. Now in those days,we couldn’t go to the school and tell them we were being bullied, they basically laughed and said “make up & go back to class”. So what we’re seeing now is totally out of control. No one should ever think suicide is the only way out. there has to be more negitivity going on in their lives. The kid doing the bullying should be addressed and mandated to go to counceling by law or be held accountable for what his actions have resulted in, an accessory, after all, he is not innocent and will continue with other kids. Prayers for Niguel’s family and dear friends who knew him.

  56. violence is never a good way out, but at 13 a mind is not developed to maturity to otherwise think clearly. As for cheerleading and boys, there were male cheer leaders before girls, and if you ever watched a college National team compete you would be amazed at the strength these young men have. They can life a single girl weighing anywhere from 100 to 125lbs in one hand. I once watched a young man compete at Nationals and he was tumbling so fast you couldn’t see his hands touch the floor, he was even more amazing when he stopped and you saw that he only had ONE arm!!! So, if Nigel wants to cheer good for him, it’s not a sissy sport and even football players have chosen to cheer and compete…

    • Very sad situation, Our Son goes there and it has been a good school, A lot of us frome various backgrounds have come from different school systems and in truth even way back when I was that age we had near same events,Young Men and Women at times just do not think things through, I sure hope this young man makes it and maybe the students will take the issues at hand a bit more serious.Asking our Son it appears the young man was well liked and never showed unstable signs as far as the other young man being named I just dont know but a lot will be on his plate if he is the root of the start of this.

  57. There has always been bullies and the schools are nor worse than our justice system when it comes to dealing with those who fail to do right. Most anyone who is different will suffer with some attacks from bullies of different degrees; verbal attacks, threats, public humiliation, and violence. I have survived and I too have also been suspended for fighting eventhough they attacked me. I guess our society expects us to be attacked and not react and defend ourselves. Also, to an extent kids will be kids, and kids like to joke and make fun of each other. Sometimes they don’t intend to do the harm that they do. These are kids and not adults so I would encourage schools to have school meeting where these topics can be discussed by a councelor speaker. I also wish to suggest that growing up around a school full of kids is hard enough, but to offer activities that will put children at risk to be bullied is unwise. The most important part of school is to offer an education, not to offer boys to be male cheerleaders! That’s rediculous, that truly is! Our schools need to get back to the basics, give our kids a good education, and do as much as possible to keep them safe at school! Please lets’ stop this equal BS and let boys be boys and girls be girls. Soon they will demand that a certain number of women have to be on an NFL team, and also a number of men be shaking the pom poms on the sidelines! This world is going mad! There’s so many more problems here than just bullies.

    • You are part of the problem. Do you actually believe that the solution is to not allow boys to be cheerleaders so they won’t be bullied? That boy had every right to be a cheerleader without fear of ridicule. Our children need to learn to embrace all people with kindness. And they need to learn it from us.

    • Men have been cheerleaders longer than women. This boy was participating in an activity he enjoyed. Your assertion is backwards and against the law. Mean kids are the problem, not kids who want to participate in activities that you find inappropriate for their gender.

    • kids should be able to be anything they want to be… do you know cheerleading is a sport that requires skill,strength, personality, stamina.. probably not. There is no reason another kid should downgrade someone on a sport they choose to do… that is ignorant. It is the parents job to teach this to them. What a shame this has happened and you should feel ashamed for your ignorant opinion.

    • Sounds like you got an A+ at Bully School… including special recognition for ignorant thinking, insecurity and homophobia…I would say YOU, and those who think like you, are the true problem for perpetuating ignorance and hate.

      • you are the bully, he is the bully you are obviously friend or family member only here to try to defend him! I take the other students word over yours any day, they are around him at school nearly everyday….what make them credible and not you??…There is multiple students whose stories are consistent and their is ONLY 1 of you!!….sorry honey , In my eyes Majority Rule!!

        • U would believe everyone else …. Interesting. Has anyone questioned the school to ask why the “alleged bully” as everyone has so wonderfully deemed him was taken home and put under police protection in regards to threats made against him ?? No of course not, you’re too busy bashing him WHEN YOU ONLY KNOW WHAT’S BEEN PRINTED NOT WHAT ACTUALLY TOOK PLACE!! All these accusations and comments made are making an even bigger mess I stead of cleaning one up. Now yet another child is not safe because ADULTS are choosing to bully him…. U don’t know jack about what happened so please don’t accuse ANYONE!

          • MAYBE HE SHOULD FEEL WHAT IT IS LIKE TO BE BULLIED BY SOMEONE BIGGER STRONGER THAT HIMSELF LIKE WHAT HE DID TO THE OTHER CHILD

          • NO NOT AT ALL NO PITCHFORKS THERE OVERRATED. BUT YA KNOW MAYBE IF HE FEELS THE WAY HE WAS MAKING OTHERS FEEL HE WOULD ACTUALLY GET IT AND STOP BULLYING YOU DONT KNOW HOW IT MAKES SOMEONE FEEL TILL IT ACTUALLY HAPPENS TO YOU. YOU KNOW NOTHING ABOUT ME SHOWD HOW QUICKLY YOU JUDGE SOMEONE

  59. Hillview Middle School is aware of the problems on campus, however their policy is to ignore it. As a parent with a child that is a student there I know this to be a fact. I just viewed comments on facebook and another popular network for teens and the comments are disturbing. There is a great deal of anger concerning that [removed] kid. He has a history of bullying along with his group of friends. Nigel was a good kid and bothered no one.I pray that he recovers, I don’t think he realized how much the other students like him. As for Monday lock down, it was horrible, unorganized, and a shame to the person that made that decision. That person already knew Nigel was not in the area but still went through with that very bad decision. Hillview was once a great school, however that is no more. The administrative staff there makes it very clear to their students to not bother them with issues of bullying, verbal insults and etc., and I noticed in the comments that no one commented on the antibullying club at Hillview. Guess what, they bully students as well.

    • I worked at hillview for 2 years and you are definitely correct… Hillview started a “anti-bullying campaign” where they chose a group of children to go around to each classroom to talk about how you can prevent bullying or report it. The children who went from class to class representing this… We’re the ones who were bullying other children. When reported to Hillview’s principal and/or vice principal… They will not do anything. The most they would do is call the kid into the office and tell them not to do it again. Which does nothing. They try and make it seems like they help the kids and enforce it…. But all they really do is put on a show and stay out of any unwanted drama that they possibly can. I have worked at two schools in the westside union school district for the last 7 years and Hillview was by far, the worst at ignoring the problems.

      • Thank you, I tried to take on that problem at Hillview some months ago and my child felt scorned by the staff. For my child’s sake I gave up and today I sit here and cry for a child that perhaps I could have helped if I had not given up. I have to live with knowing that I gave up.

  60. Pray for both kids and both families, bullying is a train, words and actions, both kids had been dealing with issues, who knows how much deep pain was already balled up inside of them. Don’t beat this [removed] dude up with your words, we don’t need another soul to be pulled down. Love and Pray for everyone, enemies or not, evil or not. Christ wants us to love everyone, yes discipline is included in love but the only way we can learn how to show true love is by submitting our hearts to Christ..So pray in love for ourselves, your families, and both these boys and all the kids that are being affected.

    • Yeah Lauren so read ALL comments again! here, facebook and the other site for teens mentioned. [removed] is the obvious perpetrator and aggressor. YOU have your opinion and I (WE) have ours…. you go ahead and pray for [removed] if you choose to, that is fine. [removed] sounds evil, and he needs prayer. I personally know a teacher at that school and when we talked earlier today that teacher did say [removed] was a bit of a trouble maker. You don’t even know him , so quit trying to play god and act like you know whats up

      • And get real Lauren, live in the real world today!….LOOK AROUND YOU, THERE ARE TRULY EVIL PEOPLE IN THIS WORLD !!…If you don’t think so, I DARE YOU TO ASK ANY OF THE INNOCENT VICTIMS OF THE BOSTON MARATHON EXPLOSIONS how they feel and what they think, talk to their families and THEN TELL THEM THEIR IS NO ENEMIES OR EVIL C’MON, I DOUBLE DARE YOU!!!

        • Madison, you need help! You need to talk to some one and let it all out. And take [removed] with you.

          • actually the boy attacked [removed] on friday and he didn’t fight back! Shame on all of you for naming a minor and I will be making a complaint

          • You need help Jim ! you also need to learn to read, comprehend, and to C your way out of A& B conversations!! it was none of your business what I said to Lauren. Why is there always some QUACK on here trying to push Jesus and what we should pray for and to who on people on this site. you want respect? then give it do not suggest or push your beliefs or your god on people. Lauren and whoever else would not like it and think it disrespectful to push my beliefs onto them.

      • WELL SAID, BRAVO. I started to reply, however you stated what I was going to say wonderfully.

      • Wow Madison, are you aware that your reply to Lauren was bullying her! I bet you did a lot of bullying in school? I see your capital letters and sarcasm. I would be affraid that in person you would had threw a hit on her! Seriously, watch how you act. None of us know exactly what each kid did leading up to the fight. I agree it seems it’s mostly one sided but that’s speculation. Remember innocent before proven guily and we are talking middle school kids not adults. Our schools are in need of good councelors who will make school speaches during the year. Kids need the guidance, as this Madison isn’t a good example how to relate to one another as she has shown.

        • No it was not, on the contrary, It is her to bully and persuade people to pray the way she prays and forces Jesus down peoples throats. ….SO, let the games begin!!!, C’MON ANON! Bully me with your comments right now! attack me Because I don’t worship the same god as Lauren or you!!…..I’m waiting…. I want to hear and see and HAVE RECORDED DOCUMENTATION from posting on a public forum, all the replies and comments back from YOU,,Jim,, and Lauren ….and whoever else that wants to join in

          • This isn’t about all you people don’t loose sight that a life has been lost.
            Grow up and help the cause! We need every one to come together help our youth be for its to lat. They need us grown up to set a good example and figure this out. This is a cry for help from our children do you not see they need us??

    • [removed] will have to live with this the rest of his life. He,is only a child. I agree witj you. And my heart goes out to Nigels family as well. This is devastating Im sure for both families. Maybe the sheriffs team could Have been better utilized yesterday by searching for Nigel instead of so many at the school!

  61. Bullies come from parents not stopping bad behavior when they are young. For instance I had my grandaughter in a play area today and a boy approx. 3 shoved a little girl into my grandaughter that cause a nice size purple goose egg on her forhead. I grabbed her and we started to leave then a lady called the other girl over and I let her know it wasn’t her fault that it was the boys. The boys mom said thats my kid and he is just a little boy. I let her know he shouldn’t be shoving girls. She did nothing to discipline him just used the excuse he is a little boy and let him continue to play meanwhile my grandaughter had to leave. No wonder society is how it is today.

    • Sometimes the kids have decent parents, but at school there is peer pressure and kids want to impress other students, be cool, powerful, and popular. That’s huge! Sometimes parents can be blamed, but peer pressure is very big at school. It can bring out some surprisingly bad character out from students you would never expect. I know from being a very bullied child myself.

      • Also, we have so many children raised in single parent families so that has had an bad effect on many kids not getting the love, support, and discipline from both an active mother and father. We need to bring back respect and responsibility into life. We need to stop encouraging single women to keep having many babies they can’t afford nor have the ability to properly raise them.

        • Single women are to blame? Surely you jest. What about the father who has chosen to not be a part of his child’s life? Our the father who is killed in war, a car accident, or from cancer? You logic is majorly flawed.

          • @ Anon, how dare you put this on single parenting! I’m an ACTIVE proud single mom of three beautiful young girls (2 of them currently attending universities & one was recently accepted to SOAR). My girl’s have been brought up with discipline and now the definition of responsibility and RESPECT, obviously something you don’t know of because if you did, you wouldn’t have posted your idiotic comment! When you read my comment Anon, try and learn the definition of RESPECT – Esteem for or a sense of the worth or excellence of a person, a personal quality or ability, or something considered as a manifestation of a personal quality or ability.

        • @ ANON WOW!!!!! as can be CLEARLY seen by other posters, I am not the only one who thinks your logic is twisted and frightening!! Who do you think you are to blame single parents!?

        • anon,you have some good points there,but it takes two to tango,young men need to be taught and encouraged to be responsible husbands and then fathers,not baby daddies.
          People can put you down all they want but the decimation of the family has to be held accountable for a lot of these problems.

  62. UPDATE: Nigel Hardy was CONFIRMED to be the victim in the Antelope Valley Hospital with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

  63. Nigel please come home! Also do they wanna punish nigel!? Nigel didn’t to anything! It was everybody who bullied him. Ugh I hate this world! Punishing the Inoccent and praising the bad….really?! How many suicides does it take for people to realize what’s going on! [removed] is gonna get bullied a ton at school. He deserves it but still sad. But not as sad as Nigel. I am freaking out! We miss you!! -XOXO

  65. It’s a problem and Bullying needs to be address at the school, parents, students who know bulling is taking place. They are all involved if you ask me. There needs to be a better way to address issues with bullying with this district/school it’s a joke how it is handled. They punish the victims and the problem is never solved?

  66. Omg! Nigel please come back! We miss you so much<3 no matter what! Please don't commit suicide! Please I care! Please return safely! Please! Omg I can't belive this is happening. I hate [removed]. [removed] bullies everybody!

  68. Nigel was nice and funny and not bad i know everybody is hoping he is ok and so do I Nigel you should come home you have friends here and it’s sad that you we’re going through a tough time but you will get through it

  70. Enough with punishing the victims of bullying. This liberal mess does not work. How in the world anyone thought it was a smart thing to punish the innocent victim for defending themselves is beyond me. If you want to fix the bullying problem. Praise the kid for sticking up for themselves (no weapons of course) and expell the bully and make the bully’s parents pay (money) for the costs of placing their brat in a new school. Nigel, do the right thing, do not hurt anyone and go home. Finish your education (graduate and get your degree) get involved in politics and change this stupid policy.

  72. i know [removed] and i know abot the fight but nigal was a good kid [removed] bullies everyone now [removed] is out there feeling sorry for himself than feeling sorry for nigal its such a sad world now

      • belive it or not but its kids that know the story more then the parents so what if this kid did bully alot of people at one point and if hes named alll actions have repercutions it sad but fact if i was this boy and hell came on me for bulling some one well id take it and change my ways not use this as a poor me dnt say my name i m going to be bullied god dose things for a reson and this will help fully open kids and parents eyes !!! i hope that all in involed to feel the wieght but not as a cruel way of punishment but to learn and say to other kids hey being in my postion realy suckkks bad dnt bully anyone this could happen to you and taking your life isnt a path to be taken either we need to teach kids to man up and work thou life like back in the day sheilding kids will not help we need to adress the peoblems thou they cant always be solved fairly there is all was a comon ground for a soulution telling this kid hes a child and knows noting isnt the way to go

  73. He is such a handsome boy. I pray that his parents don’t fall victims to the bullying.( more then they already have)

  74. this kid [removed] was bullying him for being a cheerleader. he had told my friend he was going to fight him on friday , he said he would on thursday but he didnt want to get in trouble on his birthday so he said he would friday . i seen him kick the other kid in the face and then the aids seperated them. and after that i havent seen nigel since.. he was talking to us about what [removed] was saying about him and what he was telling other people. he also said how tons of people wanted to fight him too. that is the last time i seen him.

    • [removed] needs to be dealt with accordingly….he needs to be accountable for His actions….He better hope Nigel is Found Safe and Sound!!!!

        • And People knew this and NEVER said Anything??!!!….What was done to stop this [removed] kid??…Shame on ALL the ones who were aware of what was going on and did nothing! If any were to afraid to confront the bully You all had alternatives like telling a parent, trusted teacher, counselor, principle, security OR FOR YEARS KNOW YOU CAN REPORT BULLYING ANONOMOUSLY by using 1-855-86-BULLY hotline, a new addition in the la county’s crime stopper tip hotline. most schools have a poster hanging in the office know with the hotline number or you can send txt message to report it AND YOU CAN report ANONYMOUSLY!!!

          • he didnt tell people he was bullied . but everyone knew. i had just found out about the bullying..

          • @ megan, I am so sorry your friend is going through all this …I HOPE and PRAY he makes his way back home. Sounds like he was a Great kid liked and loved by many. This breaks my heart and also makes me angry that he has been bullied to the extremes. Megan Please continue to be a friend to Nigel, to stand by him and support him.

          • I’m wondering why is it that when i was a kid and was a victim of bullying, and saw many other kids that were bullied as well, there was no sudden outburst of kids shooting up schools, or committing suicide all because they were bullied. And nowadays, its a crime to be a bully, because you can be the reason a child kills him/herself or someone else. I believe the existence of social media definitely adds a different aspect to bullying, especially when the whole school can taunt you all over fb, or any other social networking site. But is this the main cause or reason that these children are reacting so violently? I don’t think so. I don’t agree at allwitha child being picked on out bullied. I know what that is like and it hurts. But using bullying as the reason why a child picks up a weapon and goes on a murderous rampage, is far fetched for me. I think there’s other elements at work in these unfortunate situations.

  75. Nigel please come home if he’s a cheerleader what does that have to do with you Nigel we weren’t close but I want to help:(

  76. I know Nigel I go to school with him and I really think he is a cool kid and i know some people that bully him and its just wring he doesn’t mess with anyone and I hope he’s okay

  77. I agree! Kids should NOT be suspended for defending themselves! Ridiculous! In our days, the offender was suspended! Ditto to the one that said parents of bullies need to be responsible!

    • I tell my 10 year old son if you are being bullied stand up to them and tell them to stop ONE time. If the bully/bullies don’t back down let a teacher or principle know and tell the office you need to call your parents. I would love to meet a bully’s parents face to face… I tell my son, “you are not to start a fight,..YOU ONLY FINISH A FIGHT!!” My son knows that if ANYONE, bully or not, ever raises a fist to or ACTUALLY lays hands, fists, feet or what have you on him in an aggressive way, HE has the GREEN LIGHT to do whatever he needs to do to defend himself. And there has been a couple of times already he has done just that. GUESS WHAT! that BULLY/BULLIES that my son stood up to and defended himself NEVER bothered him again after that…get the picture. Yes my son has been suspended twice for fighting already while in grade school HOWEVER, School and witnesses testify me son didn’t start it he was merely defending himself, today schools policy is that both parties involved are suspended….you know what?! I TOOK MY SON TO DISNEYLAND on the day of his suspension!!!

  78. Its sad that it had to come to this but what i always ask myself is what is going on in todays world that is causing children to lash out and kill other people, and/or themselves all because they were being bullied? I’m not
    Saying that these children are not being effected.by the bullying, I’m wondering why is it that when i was a kid and was a victim of bullying, and saw many other kids that were bullied as well, there was no sudden outburst of kids shooting up schools, or committing suicide all because they were bullied. And nowadays, its a crime to be a bully, because you can be the reason a child kills him/herself or someone else. I believe the existence of social media definitely adds a different aspect to bullying, especially when the whole school can taunt you all over fb, or any other social networking site. But is this the main cause or reason that these children are reacting so violently? I don’t think so. I don’t agree at allwith
    a child being picked on out bullied. I know what that is like and it hurts. But using bullying as the reason why a child picks up a weapon and goes on a murderous rampage, is far fetched for me. I think there’s other elements at work in these unfortunate situations.

  79. No offense Anna but everyone is bullied once in there life. He just took it to far not think of home much life stood ahead of him. He should have left that Skool and move to a different Skool, or he could have been homeschool. And ‘stuck up for himself’ that sounds stupid, no offense, because he fought with fist not words. He used anger as an exuse to fight. I am sad he was a good guy and funny. But I don’t reckon we should feel sad it was his choice to commit suicide not ours.

    • [removed] No one should have to suffer so badly that they are removed from society and forced into hiding as you suggest. He is different and doesnt partake in typical “boy” activities. When you know what you are talking about feel free to give your opinion.

      • Thank you! C’Lo ….David sounds really young and really does NOT know what he is talking about, There are NO reports of Nigel committing suicide. Don’t pay no mind to David. In this situation I want to try to stay as positive and hopeful as I can

        • I know who [removed] is, and he is also a well know bully at hillview, real jerk like [removed]. everyone hates them both.

    • People who are insensitive to the situation should just stay quiet. No it was not a good choice for him to take the gun, but it wasnt fair that he was pushed to the point where he even considered it an option. He is only a child and the situation was obviously neglected by the school officials who we trust to take care of our kids when we drop them off at the school gates in the morning.

      • Yes we should feel sad, we as a society failed him. No one wants to die, at any age. Death is forever. I am sad that he hurt so badly that death was his only way out.

  81. He was bullied, stuck up for himself, and suspended….yeah let’s punish the victims. I just hope they find him and he is ok, at 13 the world seems too much but he has a lot of living to do. Remember the young man at Vasquez High? He killed himself after being bullied and made fun of and he did it in the school bathroom. Let’s not let this child be lost as well…