Teen Dies Stopping Suicide Bomber at School in Pakistan

In January this year a 14-year-old boy is being hailed as a hero in Pakistan for tackling a suicide bomber.

He died at the main gate of his school…. saving all his schoolmates gathered for their morning assembly.

A helicopter delivers a floral wreath from the Pakistan Army Chief….

While the Pakistani Army conducts a Guard of honor for Atizaz Hassan Bangash.

Hundreds of people are here to pay tribute to the 14 year old boy.

Amongst the crowd is the boy’s father Mujahid Ali.

He was in Dubai when he heard news of the blast via the television….

“I tried to call Atizaz but his phone was off. Finally I called my brother who told me about the death of Atizaz. I praise God for his sacrifice. I am very happy…. Not only me, but my Bangash  tribe every one is proud.” 

Amongst Atizaz’s schoolmates he is a hero who saved their lives.

Atizaz was on his way to school when they met the bomber, dressed in a school uniform.

20-year-old Qaiser Huassain was with him….

“We asked where he is going. He said he was going to admit himself in school. We were suspicious. I said to Atizaz he is wearing a suicide jacket. Atizaz told us to run away and Atizaz challenged the bomber. The bomber blew himself up when Atizaz threw him on the ground.”

A picture of him has been placed on his usual seat in school. 

Atizaz elder brother Mujtaba Hassan says the public reaction has help them deal with their loss. 

“We are mourning his death inside our home but when we come out to see the reaction of the people we become happy.”

His family will receive 50 thousand US dollars from the Khyber Pukhtunkhwa government.

And the school will be re-named after him.

Pakistanis are comparing Atizaz to Malala, the schoolgirl shot by the Taliban in October 2012 for promoting education for all boys and girls.