Four N.J. Students Charged in Attack on Girl Who Killed Herself Days Later
NBC News reports four New Jersey high school students, whose names have not been released, has been charged with the attack on a classmate in the hallway of their school. The attack was filmed and posted on social media. Adriana Kuch, the classmate they assaulted, committed suicide two days later, according to prosecutors. The fourteen-year-old was found dead in her Bayville home on Feb. 3, 2023.
According to the Associated Press, one juvenile has been charged with aggravated assault, two have been charged with conspiracy to commit aggravated assault and another has been charged with harassment of their classmate. Michael Kuch, the victim’s father, told NBC News that Adriana had been hit with a 20-ounce water bottle and the attack left her with bruises and wounds. Kuch stated that there had been issues between his daughter and one of the attackers for years and criticized the way the school handled this incident. He told the news outlet that he believes the bullying led to his daughter’s death.
All four juveniles and their guardians were given copies of complaints and they were released pending future court appearances, according to the Associated Press.
A GoFundMe campaign has been organized to cover funeral and legal costs. According to the page, Adriana was "a wonderful and brave daughter who touched the lives of those around her."
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, texting "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or go to 988lifeline.org. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources
