Family, friends mourn after sudden death of Chiawana student
Family and friends of a 16-year-old Chiawana student have turned out to support his mother after his sudden death.
Nathaniel Garcia died by suicide on Dec. 11, said Franklin County Coroner Curtis McGary.
A GoFundMe organized by Cambri Longaker has raised more than $12,500 so far to cover funeral expenses for the teen, who also spent time in the Finley and Kennewick school districts.
“I’m deeply saddened, shocked and reaching out to everyone for support in my friend’s behalf,” Longaker wrote. “He was a loving son, brother, grandson and nephew.”
Garcia had received several Hispanic Academic Achievement Program awards since fourth grade, according to his obituary. He also attended construction trades classes at Pasco High School.
“Nathaniel was a kind and genuine individual and we want to honor his memory by coming together to offer our support,” Longaker wrote. “This tragedy has left our community in shock and our hearts go out to Hidalia, Naydelynn and their family through this incredibly difficult time.”
Anyone who wants to donate can go to the GoFundMe page at bit.ly/NathanielGarciaFundraiser.
Needing help
People are encouraged to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or text 741741 if they need help.
If someone needs assistance right away, they can also call 911.
School districts in the past have shared a lists of potential warning signs. The risk is greater if they recently increased in the frequency or intensity and if they seem related to a painful event, loss or change.
The warning signs include:
- Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself
- Looking for ways to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated, or behaving recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Displaying extreme mood swings
This story was originally published December 19, 2023 at 10:53 AM.