PENN HILLS, Pa. – Students and staff at Penn Hills High School are reeling after the death of 10th-grader Victor Adeleke, who died Thursday from self-inflicted injuries, the school district confirmed Friday evening.
In a heartfelt message posted to the district’s official Facebook page, administrators described the sophomore as a valued member of the Penn Hills family whose absence will be deeply felt.
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“Our entire school community is heartbroken by this tragic loss of Victor,” the statement read. “We are holding his family, friends, and everyone who knew him in our hearts during this devastating time.”
Superintendent Dr. John Mozzocio said crisis counseling teams will be on campus when classes resume Tuesday after the holiday break, with additional mental-health resources available in every building throughout the week.
“Victor’s smile and presence touched so many lives here,” Mozzocio said in a brief phone interview. “Right now our focus is supporting one another and wrapping our arms around his family.”
School board president Erin Vecchio called the loss “absolutely shattering,” adding, “Victor was part of us. This hurts everyone who walked these hallways with him.”
Classmates remembered Victor as kind, funny, and always quick to help someone having a bad day. Grief counselors will also be available at Penn Hills Senior High Monday for any students who need to talk before the official return to school.
The district asked the community to respect the Adeleke family’s privacy and to keep them in thoughts and prayers.
Anyone in crisis is urged to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or chatting at 988lifeline.org—support is free, confidential, and available 24/7.