Gqeberha teen dies by suicide amid Facebook cyberbullying claims
A 14-year-old Grade 8 learner from Kariega in the Eastern Cape has died by suicide. Social media users are pointing to alleged Facebook cyberbullying as a possible factor.
SAPS Kamesh confirmed that officers received a call from the Trauma Unit at Kariega Provincial Hospital on Tuesday, 13 May, around 21:30.
When they arrived, hospital staff informed them that the girl's father had found her hanging from the roof of their home in the Moegesukkel informal settlement, Kariega.
Her family rushed her to the hospital, but she died shortly after arrival. The young girl was later identified as Shemeeque Davis. TEEN COMMITS SUICIDE AFTER ALLEGED FACEBOOK POST
Police did not find a suicide note. They opened an inquest docket and confirmed that the investigation is ongoing.
Social media users have claimed that the girl was targeted in a Facebook group in the days leading up to her death. They have shared posts suggesting she faced bullying and ridicule, which sparked outrage and calls for accountability.
Police have not confirmed the cyberbullying allegations or linked them to her death.
Davis was a learner at Uitenhage High School, which mourns her passing. In an official statement, the school said:
'It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of one of our Grade 8 learners. As a school community, we extend our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy to her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her. May her soul rest in eternal peace.'
The bodies of 19-year-old Hailie-Jade Coboza and her 40-year-old mother, Lusanda, were found two weeks ago in their home in Sakhasonke Village, Walmer Location, Gqeberha.
SAPS Walmer officers responded to reports of gunfire at the scene. While investigating, detectives uncovered key leads that led them to search local hospitals.
At Dora Nginza Hospital, police arrested the first suspect, who was receiving treatment for a leg injury.
Further investigations led police to a residence in Greenshields Park, Gqeberha, where they arrested three more suspects.
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