Montville High School student Joseph Mendes commits suicide

Montville High School students wore blue and orange to school today in honor of a 15-year-old sophomore who unexpectedly died at his Montville, Connecticut home Friday night.

Although some reports say Mendes committed suicide at his home Friday evening, the medical examiner’s office has not released the cause and manner of his death.

Students told reporters that Mendes, who was involved in a fight with another student on January 20, was “bullied” by other students at school, but Superintendent of Schools Pamela Aubin said there are no reports of Mendes being bullied.

In a letter posted on the school’s website Aubin wrote, “As parents, we struggle with how to counsel and assist our children in making sense of the loss of a young person.  It is critical that we are available to listen to their sadness, concern and fears and provide needed support and reassurance…..The use of social networking sites such as “Facebook” for discussion and speculation can be hurtful to students and disrespectful to Joseph’s family.  Please try to redirect your child to ways to honor Joseph’s member and cope with their loss.”

Students wore the blue and orange to school today because they were Mendes’ favorite colors.