> At a Glance
> – Gavyn Cunningham, 14, died by suicide on Dec. 18 in East Feliciana Parish
> – Anonymous tip alleged he was bullied at school before taking his life
> – Classmate claims Gavyn cried on the bus and was told he’d “be better off dead”
> – Why it matters: Investigation could determine if bullying contributed to child’s death
A two-week investigation is underway to determine whether relentless bullying played a role in the suicide of 14-year-old Gavyn Cunningham, who used a pistol on Dec. 16 and died two days later.
The Investigation Begins
East Feliciana Parish Sheriff Jeff Travis confirms his office received an anonymous tip days after Gavyn’s death, prompting the probe. The sheriff’s office is now interviewing school officials, students, and potential friends.
> “It’s under investigation to try to determine if we, at all possible, can figure out what Gavyn Cunningham was thinking and what was the reason he took his life,”
>
> – Sheriff Jeff Travis
Classmate Comes Forward
An anonymous East Feliciana Middle School student told WAFB that Gavyn endured constant harassment, including being told he’d “be better off dead.” The classmate also claimed Gavyn reported the bullying to adults who allegedly dismissed his concerns.
- Witnessed Gavyn crying on the school bus
- Described him as “a very nice kid” with “a sweet soul”
- Feared retaliation if identified
Legal Framework
Louisiana law criminalizes certain bullying behaviors:
| Offense | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|
| Cyberstalking | 6 months jail + $500 fine |
| Harassment | Up to $500 fine |
> “If criminal conduct is uncovered, we will make an arrest and we will charge appropriately,”
>
> – Sheriff Travis
Family’s Struggle
Gavyn’s father Mickey Cunningham did not respond to interview requests. His sister Tiffany Branstetter launched a GoFundMe to cover funeral expenses, writing that Mickey is “struggling to keep up with household bills while trying to honor his son’s memory.”
Key Takeaways
- Investigation focuses on alleged bullying at East Feliciana Middle School
- Sheriff’s office has not yet interviewed the classmate who spoke to media
- School district declined to comment on the allegations
- Case is rare in the sheriff’s 10-year tenure
The investigation continues as authorities work to determine what led to the 14-year-old’s death.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org 24/7.
