The case of a teenage girl in Sevilla who took her own life has triggered both legal and administrative investigations into her school, which is accused of failing to act on clear signs of bullying and emotional distress.
Sandra Peña Villar, 14, who attended the Irlandesas de Loreto private Catholic school, died by suicide on Tuesday.
Despite reported concerns about her wellbeing, the school is accused of failing to activate either the official anti-bullying protocol or the self-harm prevention procedures, both of which are required under regional regulations.
In an official statement released on Thursday, the Junta de Andalucia confirmed it will refer the case to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, citing potential criminal negligence.
An internal administrative inquiry has also been launched ‘to determine what went wrong and who may be responsible.’
The regional government’s Department for Educational Development and Vocational Training stated that, although the school had implemented some general measures, it failed to initiate the protocols clearly mandated when there are indicators of bullying or suicidal ideation.
The announcement marks the first public comment from the Andalucian government since the girl’s death.
Educational inspectors opened an urgent investigation immediately after the tragedy.
According to the Junta, they have already gathered documents, testimonies from the school’s management, and reviewed the measures taken – or not taken – by the institution.
Education Minister Carmen Castillo acknowledged in a public statement that there were warning signs.
‘There were indications that both the anti-bullying and self-harm protocols should have been activated,’ she said.
‘We are passing all available information to the Public Prosecutor in case there are grounds for criminal responsibility.’
She also expressed condolences to the girl’s family and acknowledged the deep sense of collective failure, adding: ‘When something like this happens, we all feel we haven’t done enough. Now we must find out what failed.’
Since Wednesday, a team of emotional wellbeing specialists from the Sevilla Territorial Delegation has been working on-site, offering psychological support to both students and staff.
The Education Department said its priority is now to support the school community during this ‘very difficult time’.
The Irlandesas de Loreto school released a short statement on Wednesday, expressing sorrow but making no mention of bullying.
‘The school community is deeply saddened by the passing of our student. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family,’ the statement read.
The school added that its main focus was now on supporting the family and pupils.
It said it was cooperating with authorities and receiving guidance from emotional wellbeing experts. A memorial mass will be held in the coming days.
If you are affected by this story, support is available. In the UK, call Samaritans on 116 123. In Spain, the national suicide prevention helpline is 024.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
