Online Shaming and Mental Health: The Heartbreaking Death of Lamont Wiley

Texarkana, TX – A heartbreaking story out of Texarkana has left communities across the country grieving, after a young father took his own life following alleged public shaming on social media by the mother of his children.

Lamont Wiley, originally from St. Louis, Missouri, was living in Texarkana at the time of his death. Though reportedly facing homelessness, Wiley remained dedicated to caring for his two young children and staying involved in their lives.

Struggles Behind the Scenesy

According to accounts from those close to him, Wiley was asked by the children’s mother to care for them for a night. Despite not having a permanent place to stay, he accepted—relying on a friend who offered him and the children temporary shelter.

That arrangement quickly fell apart. The friend reportedly left, and the children’s mother did not return to pick up the kids as planned. Wiley and his children were left outside overnight with nowhere to go. His young son reportedly suffered multiple mosquito bites during the night.

Friends and family say the experience left Wiley feeling overwhelmed, helpless, and deeply distressed—especially as he had already been grappling with mental health challenges.

Online Shaming Allegedly Contributed to Crisis

The following day, rather than receiving support or assistance, Wiley was allegedly subjected to public ridicule. Social media posts—believed to have been made by the children’s mother—criticized his parenting and called him a “bad father.”

The posts reportedly had a devastating emotional impact on Wiley. In what would be his final public act, he posted a message on Facebook expressing his pain and despair.

Shortly after, Wiley died by suicide.

A Call for Compassion and Awareness

Lamont Wiley’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and reflection online, with many calling attention to the urgent need for compassion, mental health support, and responsible use of social media.

Advocates stress that the tragedy underscores the dangers of online harassment and the added pressures faced by parents, especially those in vulnerable situations like homelessness.

Wiley is remembered by loved ones as a father who, despite extraordinary hardships, tried his best to stay present for his children.