Ocala, FL — April 28, 2025
The tragic death of 10-year-old Louis Johnson III, a fifth-grade student at Legacy Elementary School in Marion County, Florida, has led to a wrongful death lawsuit filed by his parents against the Marion County School Board. The lawsuit alleges that Louis endured persistent bullying by his teacher, Dawn White, which contributed to his suicide in April 2023.
According to the complaint, White allegedly subjected Louis to verbal insults, calling him “stupid” and stating he “didn’t know anything.” She is also accused of encouraging other students to join in mocking him. Despite the family’s repeated reports to school officials, they claim no effective action was taken to address the situation.
An internal investigation by the school district concluded that White “chronically inflicted psychological distress on multiple students by verbally insulting, humiliating, and embarrassing students,” creating a hostile educational environment. Following the investigation, White’s contract was not renewed for the subsequent school year.
The lawsuit asserts that the school’s failure to intervene contributed to Louis’s emotional distress, leading to his suicide. The family seeks accountability and systemic changes to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
If you or someone you know is struggling, resources are available. Please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 988.
