A tragic incident took place last Wednesday night at Meadowridge Academy, a residential therapeutic school in Swansea, Massachusetts, when a staff member died after being kicked in the chest by a 14-year-old student. The staff member, Amy Morrell, 53, from Riverside, Rhode Island, was attempting to restrain the student who was trying to leave a dormitory without permission.
According to Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn, Morrell and other staff members were intervening when the student struck Morrell in the chest. She then collapsed and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she later passed away. The exact cause of her death has not been made public.
The student, whose name has not been released because of her age, has been charged with assault and battery causing serious bodily injury. She appeared in Fall River Juvenile Court on Thursday for arraignment.
Meadowridge Academy serves young people dealing with mental health challenges, behavioral issues, and trauma. In a statement, the school expressed deep sorrow over Morrell’s passing and extended condolences to her family. They also said support services are being offered to both students and staff as they cope with this loss.
This sad event highlights the challenges faced by staff working in therapeutic settings with vulnerable youth. The school community remains saddened and is working through this difficult time.