Police Pursuing 'All Aspects' of Danbury Teen's Tragic Death

DANBURY, CT — Police are assuring residents they are leaving no stone unturned in their investigation following the suicide death of Danbury teen Hailey Nailor, 16.

On Tuesday, Det. Sgt. Gary Guertin took to the police department’s Facebook to assure residents that “all aspects” of Nailor's death were being investigated, including a “possible social media influence.”

Nailor jumped from the fifth floor of the Danbury Fair Mall parking garage on Saturday. Before her death, she posted a video of herself on social media, announcing her intentions. At least one other poster responded to Nailor's announcement with an insensitive and provocative remark.

That exchange was referenced in a Facebook post on Sunday by Danbury Schools Superintendent Dr. Sal Pascarella, who warned:

"We are aware that an individual posted inappropriate information regarding the deceased online, and Mr. Donovan, DHS principal, is working with authorities to have it removed. We strongly recommend that if your child has viewed the posting(s) to have a discussion with them."

The Danbury PD investigation is being conducted by the department's Special Victims Unit.

"Should our investigation reveal a criminal aspect, we will inform the public at an appropriate time," Guertin concluded.

Hailey's father, Kevin Nailor, told the Danbury News Times on Monday that he doesn't believe bullying contributed to his daughter's death. He said his daughter dealt with serious mental health issues including severe anxiety and depression.

Friends of Hailey, led by Maria Garcia have organized a candlelight vigil to celebrate her life. The vigil will be held 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16 at the Danbury Fair Mall. Dozens of people say they plan to attend. Garcia suggests that attendees wear white and blue as "those were her favorite colors."

Photo of Hailey Nalor via Danbury PD from a 2017 missing person alert.