Police are investigating after a fake Snapchat account posted "hateful messages" following the death of Sunderland schoolboy Bailey Reay.
Officers say the account has been set up in the name of another teenager, but they are satisfied that he had no knowledge of it.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said they are working to find the person behind the suspected false account after screenshots of the messages were posted on social media.
They added that safeguarding measures have been put in place for the victim of the fake account.
Bailey, 13, was found dead at his home in Houghton-le-Spring on Saturday.
Police do not believe his death is suspicious and it is now being investigated by the coroner.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “We are aware of screenshots posted on social media that show hateful messages on Snapchat following the death of a teenage schoolboy at the weekend.
"We can confirm we have spoken to the person named as posting the comments and, following extensive enquiries, we are satisfied that this is a fake profile set up in his name.
"We are still trying to establish the true identity of the person behind the account but would ask that the public to be mindful when sharing content on social media.
"The family of the teenage boy who tragically died at the weekend have been spoken to by officers and continue to receive support.
"Safeguarding measures have been put in place for the teenager who was victim of the suspected false account after his name and address were shared in the messages posted.”
One of Bailey's teachers told of his 'wonderful' smile and sense of humour, in a post on an online fundraising page.
Carol Stephenson wrote: "As a teacher, the one thing you dread to hear is that a pupil or ex-pupil has passed away.
"This was a huge shock when I heard this tragic news.
"I will always remember Bailey for having a smile that lit up the room and wonderful sense of humour to match. I cannot imagine what his family are going through at this heartbreaking time.
"Rest in peace Bailey."
The GoFundMe page was set-up by family friend Lesley Dunn to raise money for Bailey's funeral.
So far more than £4,000 has been donated.
Lesley, 40, from Sunderland, wrote: "I’m setting this up on behalf of a family who desperately need help.
"They tragically lost Bailey Reay at the young age of 13. He was and always will be loved dearly by all his family. He was a good son, brother, grandson, nephew and cousin.
"This is devastating news at any time of year and we would like to help the family give him a good send off.
"This is obviously not something anyone expected so any donations would be appreciated. All funds raised will go towards Bailey's funeral."
The Chronicle understands Bailey, whose mum lives in Sunderland, had been living with his grandmother in Houghton-le-Spring when he died.
He had previously been a pupil at Monkwearmouth Academy School.
