Instead of being celebrated for her courage, Autumn became the next target.

The bullying reportedly began at the start of the school year last August, when Autumn entered the fourth grade.

“She was one if somebody was getting bullied or picked on, she would stand up for them. And unfortunately that may have made her a target for more bullying,” Autumn’s mom, Summer Bushman told WDBJ.

While her parents were aware that Autumn was facing bullying, they say the situation took a heartbreaking turn in the final weeks of her life.

It began with subtle changes — ones that, in hindsight, carried heavy meaning. Autumn, once full of spark and laughter, started wearing darker clothes. Her bright