The hashtag #LLAW swept across social media, bringing the story of Aubreigh Wyatt to the forefront. Aubreigh Wyatt, a 13-year-old from Ocean Springs, Mississippi, tragically died by suicide on September 4, 2023. Her story quickly gained traction online as her mother, Heather Wyatt, bravely shared her grief and insights into the events leading up to Aubreigh’s death. This article delves into the details surrounding how Aubreigh Wyatt killed herself and the subsequent events that unfolded, drawing from available reports and public information.
Following the devastating loss of her daughter, Heather Wyatt turned to social media, particularly TikTok, to process her grief and share Aubreigh’s story. As Aubreigh’s name and image circulated online, the hashtag #LLAW, meaning “Live Like Aubreigh Wyatt,” emerged and began to trend. This movement aimed to honor Aubreigh’s memory and raise awareness about the issues her death brought to light.
According to reports from Newsweek and other outlets, Heather Wyatt publicly alleged that relentless bullying contributed to Aubreigh’s suicide. She stated that her eighth-grade daughter was targeted by at least four girls. While Heather did not initially name these girls publicly, online investigations led to the identification and widespread circulation of their names on social media. Purported text messages between Heather and Aubreigh, detailing instances of alleged bullying, were also shared online, further fueling the controversy and public interest in how Aubreigh Wyatt killed herself and why.
In a significant turn of events, the parents of the four teenagers identified online as bullies filed a lawsuit against Heather Wyatt. The Washington Post reported that the lawsuit cited defamation and slander as the grounds for legal action. Following the filing on July 2, a judge issued a controversial ruling, ordering Heather Wyatt to shut down all of her social media accounts. This decision sparked outrage among many social media users, who viewed it as a violation of Heather’s freedom of speech and an attempt to silence a grieving mother. Supporters, including prominent TikTok personalities like Ophelia Nichols (Mama Tot), rallied behind Heather, posting messages of solidarity and continuing to amplify Aubreigh’s story.
Ophelia Nichols, in a widely viewed TikTok message that garnered over 11 million views, voiced her support for Heather Wyatt. Acknowledging the court-ordered silence imposed on Aubreigh’s mother, Nichols declared, “Since Aubreigh’s mama can’t speak for her, (court ordered) I suppose we will.” She urged her followers to use their voices in support, emphasizing the importance of speaking out when others are silenced.
Newsweek reported that the lawsuit against Heather Wyatt claimed that her social media posts led to the accused girls receiving “insulting and revolting messages from around the world attacking them, calling them vulgar names, sexualizing them.” The legal complaint highlighted the young age of these girls, emphasizing that they were also in the eighth grade.
However, in a surprising development on July 16, the lawsuit against Heather Wyatt was dropped by the parents of the teenagers. Vicksburg News reported on the filing, which was also reviewed by PEOPLE, indicating that the case was “dismissed without prejudice.” This dismissal means the parents retain the option to refile the lawsuit in the future. As of now, it remains unclear whether the judge will lift the social media ban imposed on Heather Wyatt. Her social media profiles, which had become a focal point for millions following Aubreigh’s story, remain offline.
The Wyatt family established a GoFundMe campaign to help cover legal expenses incurred during this challenging period. In the fundraiser description, Heather Wyatt fondly remembered Aubreigh as “vibrant, kind, and exceptionally bright.” The campaign statement emphasized the financial burdens faced while seeking “justice and accountability.” To date, the GoFundMe has successfully raised over $110,000, demonstrating significant public support for the Wyatt family.
Aubreigh’s obituary, published by Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Homes, provided a glimpse into her life and personality. It described her love for “the beach, her friends, gymnastics, riding four wheelers and making TikToks.” Besides her mother, Aubreigh is survived by her sister, brother, and grandfather.
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Image: Aubreigh Wyatt, remembered by her community and family.
In the wake of Aubreigh’s tragic death, Heather Wyatt has become an advocate for mental health awareness. In a July 11 update on the GoFundMe page, she encouraged people to donate to “local therapists and counselors” and to “check in with local crisis centers to see if there’s anyone that needs help.” This shift towards advocacy underscores the broader message emerging from Aubreigh’s story: the critical need for mental health support and bullying prevention.
Trey Brennan, spokesperson for Ocean Springs School District, issued a statement to PEOPLE expressing condolences to the Wyatt family. The statement outlined the district’s procedures for addressing grief within the school community, including providing counseling services and support for staff. While unable to comment on specific student cases, Brennan affirmed that the district has “rigorous procedures” for responding to reports of bullying and harassment. He emphasized that investigations are conducted, and appropriate consequences are implemented according to district policies. The statement also encouraged students and parents to report any instances of bullying directly to school administration, highlighting the district’s commitment to a healthy learning environment.
Aubreigh Wyatt’s death by suicide is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating consequences of bullying and the urgent need for accessible mental health resources. While the question of exactly how Aubreigh Wyatt killed herself is a deeply personal and tragic detail, the larger narrative surrounding her death emphasizes the importance of open conversations about bullying, mental health, and the support systems available to young people and families in crisis. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. You can contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or visit 988lifeline.org for resources and support.
