This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Canada, which closed in 2021.

Rehtaeh Parsons, Amanda Todd Deaths Share Similarities (VIDEO)

Halifax Teen's Suicide Recalls Amanda Todd

Halifax teen Rehtaeh Parsons' suicide is stirring chilling memories of a B.C. teen who killed herself after sustained bullying at school and online.

Amanda Todd of Coquitlam, B.C. killed herself in October 2012 when she could no longer stand the harassment she was taking from classmates and online tormentors.

Todd posted a nine-minute video to YouTube prior to her suicide in which she said she was blackmailed by a person online who had a topless picture of her. The person threatened to circulate the photo if she didn't "put on a show."

She also described being harassed and beaten at school, where she was punched several times by a male friend's girlfriend.

Todd's death generated an enormous outpouring of sympathy online including from B.C. Premier Christy Clark.

Parsons is generating a similar online response after she was allegedly gang-raped and photographed during the act, in a picture that "quickly went viral," her mother Leah Parsons wrote on Facebook.

The RCMP investigated the incident involving Parsons and determined that there wasn't enough evidence to lay charges, but Nova Scotia Justice Minister Ross Landry later said that he was "committed to exploring" legal avenues to ensure the justice system was serving the province's residents, but he didn't say whether that meant the investigation would be re-opened.

Carol Todd, Amanda's mother, is offering support to Parsons' family, telling them in a letter that she understands what they're going through.

Also on HuffPost

Amanda Todd Remembered

Close
This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Canada. Certain site features have been disabled. If you have questions or concerns, please check our FAQ or contact support@huffpost.com.