An unbelievable tragedy is shaking France: a 9-year-old girl ended her life after systematic bullying at school. The incident causes shock and brings to the forefront the need for stricter protection of children from psychological violence in school environments.
France: The tragic story of Sarah
Little Sarah, from Sarguemin in northeastern France, was found hanged in her room, while authorities report that it was a suicide. Her mother reported that the 9-year-old was receiving continuous comments and mockery from her classmates because of her weight, which made her feel weak and desperate.
“In class she would laugh, she was a bit happy, but sometimes other children would insult her,” reported one of her classmates.
One of her closest friends revealed that seven children bullied her daily, using characterizations like “fat, ugly and stupid“. “She told me every day that she was tired, that she couldn’t take it anymore,” her friend added.
France: Community and school reaction
A person close to Sarah’s family stated that the school had been informed about the bullying incidents, but without any substantial change occurring.
The news of the 9-year-old’s death has caused deep shock throughout France. On the morning of Monday, October 13, 2025, white roses decorated the school gates, in a touching expression of mourning and solidarity.
