4 kids have died by suicide recently in Boone Co. ‘I hope this doesn’t happen anymore’
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, call or text the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline any time at 988, or chat online at 988lifeline.org/chat
Through tears, Jaimee Seitz told the Boone County School Board this month her 13-year-old daughter, Audree Heine was one of several students in the district to die recently by suicide.
In all, five children in the county have died since November 2024, Elaine Zeinner, communications senior manager for Boone County told the Herald-Leader Thursday. Four were suicides; one cause of death was undetermined.
“It was so hard because she was my best friend, and she had just turned 13,” Seitz told the board. “I hope this doesn’t happen anymore.”
Boone County, about 75 miles from Lexington and across the Ohio River from Cincinnati in Northern Kentucky, is reeling from the deaths.
“Please keep in mind that these are Boone County residents; not just Boone County School students,” Zeinner said.
“Teen suicide — and, really, death by suicide at any age — is a community issue; and agencies across the county are actively working together to address the issue and help those in need.”
Boone County Schools’ spokesperson Barbara Brady told the Herald-Leader federal law prohibits the district from discussing individual students or incidents.
Brady added the school district maintains a zero-tolerance policy for bullying.
“The district also has a long history of creating and providing mental health and suicide prevention and awareness programs used in our schools,” Brady said. “We have school counselors in every school. Those counselors encourage open communication and offer safe spaces for teens to express their feelings and concerns.”
Brady said the district prioritizes health, wellness and safety by implementing comprehensive prevention strategies supported by clear policies and procedures.
Who was Audree Heine?
Audree’s obituary said she was a seventh-grader at Ockerman Middle School. She played basketball and softball, enjoyed drawing and was a gifted costume designer.
She died in December 2024.
Seitz told the Herald-Leader Friday she wanted school officials to “be more transparent with the parents and kids, but with respect.”
“I want people to know that Audree was the light of my life and a good kid. She was an incredibly loved human,” Seitz said.
Where to get help
Any Boone County student who feels bullied, abused, sad or depressed, or who has experienced threats of violence or concerning behavior, can contact a school administrator, counselor or trusted teacher for assistance, Brady said.
Anonymous reports can also be made on the KCSS S.T.O.P. Tipline found on the Boone County School’s website, or by calling/texting 866-EYE-on KY (866-393-6659).
“Even if you are feeling suicidal there are resources,” Seitz said. “And don’t be afraid to reach out. The idea of reaching out for help is scary, but the relief that follows is worth it.”
This story was originally published February 21, 2025 at 4:45 PM.