A young girl described as “bright” and “loving” was tragically discovered deceased at her residence, as revealed during a coroner’s hearing. Amelia Bath, 12, passed away on March 6 at her house on Yapton Lane in Walberton, West Sussex.
During the inquest at West Sussex Coroner’s Court in Horsham, Area Coroner Joseph Turner labeled the circumstances surrounding Amelia’s death as “unnatural.” According to a statement from a coroner’s officer, Amelia was found deceased at her home due to hanging.
Amelia’s uncle, Kris Marsh, expressed profound shock at her sudden demise, stating that it was unexpected for everyone. He recounted how Amelia’s mother found her lifeless in her bedroom after attempting to wake her for school, completely shattering their world.
In response to the tragedy, Amelia’s aunt, Lisa Marsh, initiated an online fundraiser on GoFundMe to assist with funeral expenses. The collected funds will also be contributed to Chestnut Tree House, a children’s hospice serving Sussex, Brighton, and South East Hampshire, in memory of Amelia.
According to Ms. Marsh’s account to the Daily Mail, Amelia spent the evening before her passing joyfully with family, enjoying fish and chips. Subsequently, friends disclosed that Amelia had been subjected to bullying on Snapchat in the period leading up to her death.
In the fundraiser campaign, Ms. Marsh eulogized her niece as a “bright, funny, kind-hearted, and loving girl” who radiated warmth and laughter wherever she went. She emphasized Amelia’s beautiful soul, the promising future she held, and the irreplaceable void her absence has left behind.
Urging support, Ms. Marsh appealed for donations and shares of the fundraiser, expressing gratitude for every contribution and gesture of kindness. Sussex Police confirmed that they were investigating the circumstances surrounding Amelia’s death, clarifying that it was not deemed suspicious. Collaborative efforts with schools and partner organizations have been initiated to provide support to the affected family and individuals.
The inquest proceedings have been adjourned until a pre-inquest review scheduled for June 17. For those in need of emotional assistance, the Samaritans helpline is available 24/7 at 116 123, via email at jo@samaritans.org, through in-person visits to Samaritans branches, or on the Samaritans website.