In a heartbreaking pursuit of justice, the parents of an 11-year-old Florida boy who died by suicide have filed a lawsuit accusing their son’s school and teacher of long-term emotional abuse that led to his death.
Tyka Johnson and Louis Johnson Jr. have taken legal steps against the Marion County School Board, claiming that their son, Louis Johnson III—affectionately known as LJ—was subjected to repeated bullying by a fifth-grade teacher while attending Legacy Elementary in Ocala.
Filed on April 21, the wrongful death suit claims that LJ was regularly singled out and demeaned by his teacher, identified in the suit as Donna White (also referenced as “Dawn”). The parents allege that White not only verbally harassed LJ in front of his classmates, often calling him “stupid,” but also encouraged other students to isolate and ridicule him. 
The lawsuit contends that this ongoing mistreatment, allegedly spanning months, led LJ into deep emotional distress, culminating in his suicide on April 27, 2023. His family remembers him as a joyful and kind-hearted child who loved nature, cooking TikTok recipes, and supporting the homeless community.
Despite reporting the teacher’s behavior to school officials, the Johnsons claim their concerns were ignored and no meaningful steps were taken to protect their child. The lawsuit accuses the school board of negligence and failure to provide a safe learning environment.
In the aftermath of his death, the Johnsons distributed suicide awareness materials at Legacy Elementary, which included their accusations against the teacher.
A subsequent school investigation in mid-2023 gathered testimony from over two dozen students. According to reports, at least 12 of White’s former students shared troubling accounts of emotional mistreatment, including incidents that left children in tears. Following the investigation, the district declined to renew White’s teaching contract.
To help cover funeral and related costs, the family launched a GoFundMe campaign, which described LJ as a vibrant boy with an infectious smile and a big heart. “He lit up every room and brought joy to everyone who knew him,” the page read.
Now, Tyka and Louis Johnson are demanding a jury trial as they seek accountability and systemic change.
If you or someone close to you is experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, free and confidential support is available 24/7. Call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, text “STRENGTH” to 741741, or visit 988lifeline.org for help.
