HARVEST, Ala. — Endeavor Elementary School is mourning the death of one of its former students.
On Saturday, August 7, the school released the following statement on Facebook regarding the death of 10-year-old Tate Buening, the victim of a murder-suicide:
Many of you heard the news that spread throughout our community yesterday of a murder-suicide. The names were just released and I can now share with our Endeavor family the most recent post from the Madison Sheriff's Dept.
Tate Buening attended Endeavor from kindergarten through 3rd grade. Even though, he had moved to Athens City Schools, he will always be an Endeavor Cub.
Tate was a bright light. I have described him as simply sunshine coming down the hallway. Other staff members have stated that he always had a hug for them and was kind to everyone. He always exemplified our Endeavor expectations of being kind, safe, and responsible.
Our hearts are broken. Tate had such a bright future and we are saddened that it was taken from him at the age of 10 years old. Please remember his mother Kayla in your prayers.
We also know that there will be students who are hurting and missing their friend. Please contact us if your child will need that extra support as they process this tragedy. We will ensure they have that.
There is a fund, started by Kasey Edwards, if any of you wish to contribute. Info is shared on the Endeavor PTA page and I will link it here in the comments.
Jenny Shelton McAlister , Principal of Endeavor Elementary
The principal of Athens Intermediate School, the school Buening was attending at the time of his death, issued the following statement:
The Athens Intermediate School family is heartbroken over the loss of our precious student. Tate was a loving boy and we will miss his sweet smile and energy. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. Although our students will not return until Wednesday, counselors will be available to support his classmates during this time of sadness.
-Cindy Davis, Principal
Athens Intermediate School
Click here for the GoFundMe page in honor of Tate Buening.