Father speaks out after daughter’s death at Point Loma High School

SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — The father of a Point Loma teen is mourning the unexpected loss of his daughter.

Italia Bernay, a student at Point Loma High School, tragically took her life on campus Friday while a school football game was taking place nearby.

Her father, Robert Bernay, decided to speak out, hoping his daughter’s story would help other parents and young teens.

On Monday, students, parents and school staff honored the 17-year-old during a memorial on campus.

Bernay says his family never saw warning signs that his daughter was struggling until they found a diary entry after her death. He described his daughter as happy, a straight-A student and a member of the school drama club.

In a letter to parents, the principal informed the school community of Italia’s death, offering parents and teachers resources on how to talk to their students about the tragedy and how to cope. The letter also states that mental health professionals will be on site throughout the week for support.

Bernay hopes the loss of his daughter will remind parents to check on their children more often and make sure they are doing well.

“Great soul, great spirit. They said to me today that her energy, every time she entered a room, she lit up the whole room, she was my light,” Bernay said proudly of his daughter.

Italia’s family is raising money to help pay for her funeral costs. If you would like to donate, scan the QR code on the message below.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the Crisis Lifeline on 988.