'There Were No Signs': Sussex Family Devastated After 12-Year-Old Takes Her Own Life After Snapchat Bullying

The family of a 12-year-old schoolgirl who took her own life following Snapchat bullying have spoken of their devastation, saying there were 'no signs' of her distress. Amelia Bath, from Fontwell in West Sussex, was found dead in her bedroom on 6 March by her mother.

Her aunt Lisa Marsh said the bright and kindhearted girl had been happy the night before, laughing over fish and chips at her grandparents' house.

A Happy Evening Turns to Tragedy

The evening of 5 March seemed ordinary for Amelia. She visited her grandparents, enjoyed a meal of fish and chips, and appeared in good spirits. Her family, including father Steve, mother Marie, and older sister Olivia, had no inkling of the secret torment she was enduring online.

Steve and Marie, both company directors, described Amelia as filling every room with warmth and laughter. But the next morning, Marie made the harrowing discovery. The family was overwhelmed with shock. Aunt Lisa Marsh, who set up a GoFundMe page in her memory, said: 'No family ever imagines facing a loss like this, and the shock and heartbreak have been overwhelming for everyone who knew and loved her'.

It was only after her death that friends came forward to reveal the Snapchat bullying, leaving the family to wonder how they missed it. It's hardly a surprise that young people often keep these matters hidden from adults, but the consequences can be catastrophic.

Uncovering the Snapchat Bullying

In the weeks leading up to her death, Amelia was relentlessly targeted with abusive messages on Snapchat. Her friends disclosed this information to her parents only after the tragedy had unfolded. Sussex Police have launched an investigation into the bullying claims, with digital forensics officers examining her iPhone and iPad to uncover the full extent of the abuse.

The probe aims to determine whether there is any criminal element involved, although the death itself is not being treated as suspicious and has been referred to the coroner. Lisa Marsh has highlighted the dangers of cyberbullying, noting that many parents don't realise the extent to which their children are engaging with social media platforms. She has urged anyone facing similar issues to seek help from trusted adults or support services.

The story gained attention on social media, with the Daily Mail posting on X about the relentless Snapchat abuse that is feared to have driven the schoolgirl to suicide. This case underscores the need for better parental monitoring and education around children's social media use to prevent such tragedies.

Community Tributes and Fundraising

At The Regis School in Bognor Regis, where Amelia was a popular pupil, classmates have created a memorial shrine with flowers, soft toys, balloons, and heartfelt notes.

The family has received an outpouring of support. The GoFundMe page, established to cover the costs of a special funeral and to make a donation to Chestnut Tree House children's hospice in Amelia's name, has so far raised £13,363 ($17,869), towards a goal of £20,000 ($26,744).

As the investigation continues as of 12 March 2026, the family hopes that Amelia's story will raise awareness about schoolgirl suicide linked to Snapchat bullying. They are committed to honouring her memory through the charity donation, ensuring that some good emerges from this loss.