DepEd investigates death of Grade 3 learner allegedly hit with notebook
The Department of Education is looking into the death of a Grade 3 pupil, who passed away after allegedly being hit by a notebook.
In a statement on July 25, the agency mourned the passing of the student from Lapulapu Elementary School in Agdao District, Davao City.
"We extend our deepest sympathies to the learner's families and loved ones," it said.
"The DepEd Regional Office XI, the Schools Division of Davao City, and the school are coordinating with authorities regarding the reported incident at the school and providing assistance to the bereaved family," DepEd continued, adding that it has extended psychosocial support to affected learners and school personnel.
According to a 24 Oras report, an eight-year-old girl was allegedly struck on the head with a notebook by a classmate on July 17. The child experienced body pains for a few days afterward and was taken to the hospital on July 21. The girl died on the same day.
Sta. Ana Police Station chief PMAJ Marc Hedssel Culste said the child confessed to their teacher about the incident.
Initial findings indicated that the child experienced brain failure and traumatic brain injury.
GMA Regional TV reported that the family of the 8-year-old girl declined an autopsy. The mother also said they do not blame anyone over the incident.
"[Wala] naman talaga akong isinisisi dahil mga bata pa naman din kasi[.] Wala akong isinisisi kahit kanino, wala," she told the outlet.
DepEd has also asked the public to refrain from sharing fake news regarding the incident amid its probe.
"We respectfully ask the public to allow the investigation to proceed and await the official findings. We also urge everyone to refrain from speculation or sharing unverified information that may cause further pain to the bereaved family, the children involved, and the school community," it said.
