RCMP in B.C. have confirmed they
have launched a full investigation into the circumstances leading to the
suicide of Port Coquitlam teen Amanda Todd.
The 15-year-old girl committed suicide in her family home on Wednesday, about a month after posting a video on YouTube saying how she sunk into depression while enduring years of online bullying, blackmail and physical assaults at school.
As part of the investigation, police officers are already reviewing and actively monitoring social media, Sgt. Peter Thiessen said in a statement issued on Friday afternoon.
"Serious crime teams in Coquitlam and Ridge Meadows are working together, conducting interviews and reviewing any potential contributing factors to her death," he said.
In at least one B.C.case, a bully has been convicted of criminal harassment. A 16-year-old girl was convicted in connection with the death of Dawn Marie Wesley, 14, of Maple Ridge, who committed suicide in 2000.
The Coroners Service of British Columbia is also investigating her death, but cautioned the investigation will be long and complex — and the public should not expect instant answers.
Coroner Barb McLintock said that answers will not come quickly to explain the death of the troubled teen, and issues ranging from school and mental health support, to cyber and social media bullying must be explored in order to make effective recommendations to halt similar tragedies.
McLintock says once the coroner's report is written, the case will go to a child-death review, and could even be referred to a third level for review by a multidisciplinary team of experts.
Todd's family members have said they hope her YouTube video can be used in a positive way to prevent future youth suicides.
Friends and family are holding a memorial for Todd today Saturday October 13th in the afternoon at Samuel Robertson Technical, one of her former schools.
