Florida Parents File Lawsuit After Losing 11-Year-Old Son to Suicide
Just two years after tragically losing their 11-year-old son, Louis “LJ” Johnson III, a heartbroken Florida family is taking bold legal action. On April 21, they filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Marion County School Board in Ocala, FL—alleging the district failed to protect their child from bullying that led to his suicide.
RELATED:3-Year-Old Boy Dies After Mom Who Was Allegedly Glued To Her Phone Didn’t Realize He Was Drowning
According to the court documents obtained by PEOPLE, LJ died by suicide on April 27, 2023, after enduring what his parents described as relentless harassment from his teacher and classmates. The lawsuit centers on a 5th-grade teacher named Donna “Dawn” White, who, the parents claim, publicly humiliated their son in class and even encouraged other students to join in.
White allegedly told LJ during class, “I don’t know why you’re talking because you don’t even know anything. You don’t know nothing in this class. Isn’t that right kids?” — a moment that reportedly shattered the child’s spirit.
Allegations of Negligence and a Call for Accountability
The lawsuit states that the parents repeatedly alerted the Marion County School Board about their concerns. But instead of taking action, the board allegedly turned a blind eye—leaving LJ to deal with deepening anxiety and depression all by himself. According to the suit, this neglect was a major factor in his tragic death.
In legal filings, the family claims:
“White constantly, consistently and relentlessly publicly humiliated minor child [LJ] in front of his peers, calling him ‘stupid’ and ridiculing him… over the span of months.”
The trauma LJ experienced, they say, didn’t just come from the teacher. It grew worse as classmates joined in, emboldened by what they witnessed. The lawsuit alleges this bullying environment spiraled until the child could no longer cope.
Investigation Into Teacher’s Conduct Reveals Disturbing Patterns
Following LJ’s death, an internal investigation was launched into White’s behavior. According to WCJB, by June 2023, over 24 students, including 12 directly under White’s supervision, gave statements. They claimed she regularly made kids cry and publicly shamed them about their grades.
The report concluded that White consistently caused emotional harm through verbal abuse, with findings stating she “chronically inflicted psychological distress… by verbally insulting, humiliating, and embarrassing students.”
As a result, White’s contract was not renewed. But the parents are saying it’s too little, too late.
Seeking Justice: Family Wants a Jury to Decide the Case
In a bold legal move, LJ’s parents are demanding a jury trial but not just a judge — to weigh in on every triable aspect of the lawsuit. That means they want a jury to hear the details, assess the damages, and help determine whether the school district and staff should be held financially and legally accountable.
In legal terms, “triable by jury” ensures public participation in the justice process. And for a case this emotional and painful, the parents say a jury should have the final word.
Remembering LJ: A Bright Light Lost Too Soon
LJ’s parents are now leaning on memories to find strength.
“He was a much loved son, brother, uncle and friend. For those of you who knew him, you were the lucky ones. He would light up any room with his infectious smile,” The family said in the description of the old GoFund Me page.
The fundraiser helped the family cover funeral costs. And while no amount of money or justice can bring their baby boy back, they’re hoping their lawsuit prevents another child from suffering the same fate.
As of now, the Marion County School Board has not released any updated statement regarding the lawsuit.
