Penn Hills community grieving loss of high school student, counseling available

The Penn Hills School District community is grieving the loss of a high school student.

Jason Lott Jr., 17, died in his home on April 18, a little more than two weeks after the birth of his daughter, Amora Rose Lott.

“It’s horrible,” his mother, Gina Bigenho, said Friday. “I can’t even explain the pain. Me and his dad are just shattered. He was a goofy, fun-loving kid. Always happy to be there for everybody, very protective of his friends and family.”

Amora was born on April 1. The family shared a photo of Jason holding his baby girl.

“He was so happy, proud and excited to be a great father,” Bigenho said. “He was/is loved by so many, and I don’t even have words for how much he will be missed by everyone.”

The photo was also used in a post by the school district.

“It’s tragic,” Superintendent Nancy Hines said. “We’re sorry for Jason’s loss. We really appreciate that his mom trusted us to offer a tribute to him on our website and via social media.

“Grief support will continue to be offered through our school counseling offices.”

Bigenho said her son, a 10th grader, died of a heroin overdose. She said it was the first time he used the drug.

She has a message for others who might think of experimenting or are addicted.

“All it took was one bag, one time,” she said while holding back tears. “Don’t do it. Your first time can kill you. It’s a senseless, stupid death. Your friends and family need you. A piece of us is taken, and we’ll never get it back.”

Jason is survived by his parents, younger brother Aiden, older sister Nichole, many aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives.

A private funeral service was held Wednesday.