Nationwide — Aa’Dyen Hooks, an 11-year-old African American boy from Georgia, died after suffering a seizure at school. His family says staff ignored his medical and education plans, and they have filed a lawsuit claiming the school’s failures directly contributed to his death.
Born with multiple health challenges, including epilepsy, developmental delays, and heart and liver conditions, Aa’Dyen defied expectations. His mother, Kandis Horton, said he was always joyful and determined, never letting his diagnoses define him.
On November 3, 2023, Aa’Dyen experienced a severe seizure at Euchee Creek Elementary School. The lawsuit alleges staff ignored critical instructions in his individualized education program (IEP) and emergency medical plan. They reportedly gave him an iPad, which could trigger seizures, and left him unmonitored for several minutes.
During the episode, Aa’Dyen fell and convulsed while students and staff reportedly stepped over him without immediate assistance. The family claims school employees performed CPR and used a defibrillator in ways that contradicted his medical plan.
Aa’Dyen suffered a brain injury and remained in a vegetative state until his death on February 23, 2025. Horton said the school deleted video footage of the incident, removing crucial evidence.
“I feel like they robbed my son of having a future that he deserved,” Horton told WLBT. “They failed my baby. They did. And nobody deserves that.”
Horton emphasized that the lawsuit focuses on accountability, not money. Horton wants changes to protect students with disabilities. The family’s complaint accuses the district and staff of discrimination, negligence, and violating Aa’Dyen’s rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act and Georgia law.
Her attorney, Ken Barton, said the school repeatedly failed to follow federal and state guidelines for special education and emergency care. The school has denied the allegations and asked the court to dismiss the case, while the family continues to push for justice and reforms.