CPFSA concerned about bullying; providing support to family of late Hopewell High student

The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) has expressed deep concern about bullying, following the tragic death of a 13-year-old Hopewell High School student in Hanover, who reportedly took his own life on Thursday.

Twaine Jaheem Skyers was allegedly being bullied by a student from another high school, with the most recent confrontation occurring on Monday at a bus park.

That incident drew police intervention, resulting in both boys being taken to the Barnett Street Police Station in St James, where they were warned and subsequently released to their parents, the state agency stated on Saturday.

The CPFSA said on the evening of his death, Twain returned home in Lilliput, St James, later than usual.

It said his mother, who had repeatedly warned him to be home by 5 p.m. for his safety, "chastised him" and left him alone in his room.

When she later grew concerned after not hearing from him, she forced open his locked door and found him unresponsive in the bathroom. Family members rushed him to the Cornwall Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Chief Executive Officer of the CPFSA, Laurette Adams-Thomas, expressed sadness at the case.

“This is an absolutely heartbreaking tragedy. The loss of a child in such circumstances is utterly devastating, and our thoughts and prayers are with Twain’s mother, relatives, classmates, and teachers as they grapple with this painful reality,” she said.

Adams-Thomas noted that CPFSA first responders have been providing immediate psychosocial support. Twain’s mother and another family member have been referred to the agency’s Child and Family Services Unit and the Ministry of Justice’s Victim Services Division for counselling.

“The CPFSA team is doing everything we can to provide psychosocial support to the family, and we will continue to provide follow-up care as needed for the family and school community as they move through this very difficult time,” she added.

The CEO also encouraged students facing bullying, abuse, or emotional challenges to seek help.

“We want every child to know that you are not alone. Please talk to a teacher, a school guidance counsellor, a trusted adult, or call Safe Spot at 888-723-3776, which is a free and confidential helpline for children and teens. You should also report instances of abuse and bullying to our 24/7 CPFSA Child Protection Hotline at 211. Reaching out for support can save lives, especially your own.”

Adams-Thomas further appealed to schools, parents, and communities to work together to prevent bullying.

“Bullying can have devastating effects on a child’s emotional wellbeing. We are urging schools, parents, and communities to work together to foster safe environments where children feel valued, protected, and supported,” she said.

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