A tragic incident unfolded at Meadowridge Academy in Swansea, Massachusetts, where a school staff member, Amy Morrell, aged 53, lost her life after an altercation with a 14-year-old student. The pupil allegedly attempted to leave a residence hall without permission, leading to a confrontation with Morrell. During the incident, the student kicked Morrell in the chest, causing her to collapse. Despite immediate CPR efforts and a swift hospital transfer, Morrell passed away the following day.
The unnamed teenager has been charged with assault and battery causing serious bodily injury, as confirmed by the Bristol County District Attorney’s office. The pupil faced arraignment at Fall River Juvenile Court on Thursday morning.
Andrew Ferruche, a close family friend of Morrell, expressed shock and sorrow over the tragic outcome, highlighting the devastating impact on both families involved. Morrell, who worked as a direct care staff member at the school, was well-regarded among colleagues and students.
Meadowridge Academy, located near the Rhode Island border, is known as a comprehensive therapeutic residential school catering to individuals aged 12 to 21 with mental health and behavioral challenges. With a modest enrollment of 35 pupils last year, the academy focuses on providing specialized treatment and support to its students.
Advocate Jennie DunKley emphasized the need for proactive strategies to prevent escalations and incidents that may lead to restraint or seclusion in educational settings like Meadowridge Academy. She underscored the importance of early intervention and support mechanisms to avoid such tragic outcomes.
Operated under the Justice Resource Institute, Meadowridge Academy is part of a network of schools and programs dedicated to serving individuals with diverse needs. In response to the incident, the school community expressed deep sorrow over Morrell’s untimely passing and offered support services to aid in coping with the loss. Law enforcement continues its investigation into the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event.