Fayette community to honor student with balloon release following suicide
Euphenie Andre
FAYETTE, Mo. (KMIZ)
The Fayette community will hold a balloon release Saturday at Paige-Liberty Park to honor Zyairah Barney, a seventh grader at Fayette R-3’s Clark Middle School who died by suicide.
Family members and friends said Barney had been experiencing intense bullying, which they claim was rooted in racism. They allege that students reported the behavior to school staff multiple times, but no action was taken. Barney’s mother also reportedly raised concerns with the school.
Fayette R-3 Superintendent Brent Doolin released a statement following Barney’s death:
“Our hearts are with the family as they face this loss. We are keeping them in our thoughts and are providing additional support for students and staff as our school community grieves. Out of respect for the family, we are not able to share specific details about this situation,” the statement read.
Doolin said the well-being and safety of our students is the district’s highest priority.
“When concerns are brought forward, they are carefully reviewed and investigated, and appropriate action is taken to support student safety and well-being. In addition, students receive ongoing guidance and support on how to recognize, report, and respond to bullying,” the statement read.
Fayette police said they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the student’s death.
Officials have not released the number of students who may have been involved but are asking anyone with information to come forward. At the same time, they are urging the public to avoid speculation so the investigation can proceed without interference.
Check back for updates.