Mum’s plea after son Joshua Belden dies at Year 12 formal
A heartbroken mum has broken her silence weeks after her son died at his Year 12 school formal in front of horrified students.
The Year 12 student who plunged to his death at a school formal has been identified.
Joshua Kai Belden, 18, fell from the top of a building at Wellington Point State High, in Brisbane’s east, on November 18 in front of horrified classmates.
Paramedics rushed to the scene, but he could not be saved.
His mum Allison Cox revealed on Wednesday that it was her son who was involved, after concerned members of the community reached out.
“Josh had lived all his life here and had just graduated Year 12 (at) Wellington Point State High. We have shared this information for those members who contacted us. Thankyou from his loving family,” the post on a Facebook community group read.
She also shared a funeral pamphlet, encouraging those who knew Josh to “wear colour” in celebration of his 18 years on Earth.
“Come with your happiness and your wonderful memories of him,” it read.
“Please join us for the service followed by an afternoon tea to laugh and cry together.”
The funeral will be held at Redlands Christian Reformed Church on December 15.
Days after the tragedy, the school wrote to parents confirming the death of a Year 12 student and urged them to advise their kids to not post about it on social media.
“As you may be aware, a distressing event has deeply impacted our school community. It is with a heavy heart that I must share the news of the passing of one of our Year 12 students,” the letter read.
“I know you and your children will share in our shock and sadness at the enormity of this situation and understandably, you may be concerned about how your child or children are reacting to this news.”
The letter went on to encourage parents and caregivers to support their kids by listening and letting them know they are aware of the incident.
School officials also discouraged posting anything in relation to the death on social media to avoid rumours spreading.
“We kindly ask for your support in monitoring your children’s use of social media over the coming days. While many posts may come from a place of care, comments or speculation online can be deeply distressing for those grieving,” it continued.
“We also ask that you encourage your child not to share or comment on social media about this incident. The most respectful way we can support the student’s family and friends is by maintaining their privacy and avoiding the spread of information or opinions online.”
A Queensland Police spokesperson said a report will be prepared for the coroner into the non-suspicious death.
Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 if this story has raised concerns.
Originally published as Mum’s plea after son Joshua Belden dies at Year 12 formal
