A tragic incident unfolded at Meadowridge Academy in Swansea, Massachusetts, where a school staff member, Amy Morrell, aged 53, lost her life after reportedly being kicked in the chest by a 14-year-old female student. The altercation occurred when the student tried to leave a residence hall without authorization, prompting Morrell to intervene. Following the kick to her chest, Morrell collapsed and despite immediate CPR and emergency medical attention, she passed away the next day.
The unnamed teenager responsible for the assault has been charged with assault and battery causing serious bodily harm and appeared in Fall River Juvenile Court. Andrew Ferruche, a close family friend of Morrell, expressed shock and disbelief over the tragic turn of events, emphasizing the devastating impact on both the victim’s and the perpetrator’s lives.
Meadowridge Academy, described as a comprehensive therapeutic residential school catering to individuals aged 12 to 21 with mental health and behavioral challenges, is located near the Rhode Island border. The academy, which had a small enrollment of 35 students last year, falls under the Justice Resource Institute’s umbrella.
Jennie DunKley, an advocate for individuals with special needs, highlighted the importance of implementing proactive strategies to prevent incidents like these, emphasizing the significance of de-escalation techniques. The school community, represented by a spokesperson, expressed deep sorrow over Morrell’s death and offered support services for students and staff coping with the tragic loss. The investigation into this heartbreaking case is ongoing.