DANBURY -- Officials confirmed that a high school student took her life Saturday.
Police said on Saturday they were called around 1:20 p.m. for a wellbeing check on a teen girl who was threatening suicide at the Danbury Fair Mall. In a statement, police said, "As both Mall Security and police units responded to the area of the parking garage, the area the teen was believed to be, the teen had fallen to her death from atop the mall parking garage. Preliminary information indicates that the teen was alone at the time and that the fall was an intentional act."
The office of the Chief Medical Examiner said it was a suicide.
Police said family members were notified and the incident is currently being reviewed by police investigators. Police also said, "Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to all those affected by this tragic incident."
Danbury School Superintendent Message from Dr. Sal V. Pascarella posted a message to parents on Facebook:
Dear Danbury Families,
It is with great sorrow that I share information on the untimely passing of a Danbury High School student on Saturday, Feb 9, 2019. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are extended to family and friends at this most difficult time.Danbury High School will have counselors and support staff on hand for any student in need. In addition if at any point you feel your child may be having difficulties, please contact their school principal, counselor or social worker for support.
We are aware that an individual posted inappropriate information regarding the deceased online, and Mr. Donovan, DHS principal, is working with authorities to have it removed. We strongly recommend that if your child has viewed the posting(s) to have a discussion with them.
This is a difficult time for everyone involved. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Later in the day, He sent this statement out:
Today, across our District we remain focused on working with all of our students and staff who are grieving the recent loss of one of our Danbury High School students. Their safety and security continues to be our primary concern, as we all struggle with this terrible tragedy. We are mindful of hurtful comments that continue to circulate on social media that are directed at our schools and other members of our community, and we continue to cooperate with administrators and local authorities to investigate all of the surrounding circumstances.
The Board of Education remains deeply concerned, and will continue its work with our Superintendent and his team to review the policies and procedures that protect all students in our schools and to insure their effectiveness. Please know that this District remains committed to fostering a positive school environment for all of our students and families. If you would like additional resources to assist you in talking with your children, you can explore the following:
http://www.sptsusa.org/parents/
We urge you to contact your school administrator or school support staff if you have concerns or would like additional support.
Dr. Sal V. Pascarella, Superintendent of Schools and Patrick Johnston, Chairman Board of Education
How to get help: Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. The International Association for Suicide Prevention and Befrienders Worldwide also can provide contact information for crisis centers around the world.