A Massachusetts school staffer has died after a student allegedly kicked her in the chest, officials said.
The 14-year-old girl has been charged with assault and battery causing serious bodily injury, according to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.
The incident occurred Wednesday evening at Meadowridge Academy in Swansea, a therapeutic residential school serving students ages 12 to 21 with mental health and behavioral challenges. Staff, including Amy Morrell, 53, were attempting to restrain the student, who had been trying to leave a dorm building without permission, when she was allegedly struck in the chest. Morrell collapsed shortly afterward.
School staff performed CPR and called 911, and Morrell was transported to a hospital. She remained hospitalized until she was pronounced dead Thursday afternoon, the district attorney’s office confirmed. The cause and manner of death have not been publicly released.
The student was arraigned Thursday morning in Fall River Juvenile Court. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not provided further updates.
Meadowridge Academy expressed deep sorrow over Morrell’s death:
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Amy’s family during this difficult time. Support services and resources are available to assist students and staff as we grieve this tragic loss.”
Friends remembered Morrell, a resident of Riverside, Rhode Island, as supportive and caring. Andrew Ferruche, a friend, told WCVB:
“I couldn’t believe when I got the call today. It’s just a tragic situation. She did tell me on more than one occasion she did love what she was doing.”
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