Bullied Student Died from Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound

ACTON, Calif. -- An estimated 300 students and parents attended a candlelight vigil Monday night at Vasquez High School in Acton to remember a young student who shot himself to death.

Sheriff's deputies were called to the school at 33630 Red Rover Mine Road, shortly before 1 p.m. on Monday, according to county fire department officials. Sheriff's Deputy Art Spencer said a 14-year-old boy was found in a restroom suffering from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Students identified the deceased as Jeremiah Lasater. Students and parents said the teen was often bullied.

The sheriff's department was investigating the circumstances that led to the apparent suicide.

"They just told us that someone had gotten shot in the bathroom," said student Spencer McKelvey. "We didn't know who it was until later. A lot of kids really didn't know Jeremiah very well, and I didn't know him, personally, but it's still sad."

Jeremiah also played Junior Varsity Football at the school. He has an older brother who attends the same school.

The school, which closed after the victim was found, reopened Tuesday with grief counselors to help any students or teachers who need assistance. Students brought flowers to a memorial on school grounds.