11-Year-Old Boy Kills Himself In Michigan After Girlfriend, 13, Faked Her Own Death Online

April 7, 2017 – 11-Year-Old Boy Commits Suicide In Michigan After Girlfriend, 13, Faked Her Own Death Online

11-year-old Tysen Benz a resident of Marquette, Michigan passed away on April 4, 2017 after a suicide attempt last month, following a social media prank.

He died in Ann Arbor on Tuesday after being on life support since March 14th.

His mother believes that Tysen made the attempt after being victimized online through a social media prank.

She is urging parents to talk to their kids about the dangers of social media.

Here is her full statement, via TV6:

“My son Tysen Benz was an 11 year old student, athlete, comedian, friend, brother, charismatic and all around amazing child. On Tuesday, March 14th he impulsively chose to end his own life as a result of a horrific act of a social media prank which is under investigation by authorities.

He clung on with the help of life support until Tuesday, April 4th. He has now been set free and can Rest In Peace. He was loved by everyone he knew and he will absolutely never be forgotten.

Our family is completely heartbroken. I urge families to speak out, reach out and communicate with your children about life’s precious gift and the dangers of the internet and texting and how telecommunications can have the same effects as speaking face to face.

I want Tysen to be remembered as he was and all the joy he’s brought to everyone. Keep his spirit alive by standing strong & fighting against social media bullying!!”

Details about the prank are not available as it remains under investigation by Marquette Police.