Staff Member Dies After Alleged Assault by 14-Year-Old Student

A staff member at a residential therapeutic school in Swansea, Massachusetts, died following an incident involving a 14-year-old student on the evening of March 15, 2024. The deceased, identified as Amy Morrell, 53, from Riverside, Rhode Island, was reportedly kicked in the chest by the teenager while attempting to restrain her around 19:00 local time.

According to officials, the incident occurred at Meadowridge Academy when the student attempted to leave a dormitory without permission. After being struck, Morrell collapsed, prompting immediate CPR from fellow staff members. Emergency medical services transported her to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead on the afternoon of March 16, 2024.

The Bristol County District Attorney’s office has charged the teenager with assault and battery causing serious bodily injury, as confirmed by Thomas Quinn III. The youth was arraigned on March 16 in Fall River Juvenile Court. Legal analyst Martha Coakley noted that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be critical in determining any potential upgrades to the charges. She remarked, “What were the circumstances around this? And, secondly, it will also depend on what the coroner says.”

Family friend Andrew Ferruche expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event, stating, “It’s a horrible accident. You get in a horrible fight, you don’t think you’re going to hit someone and they’re going to die right there — especially if you’re a kid.” He added, “So, that child’s life is probably ruined. Her life is gone. It’s just a tragic situation.”

In response to the incident, a spokesperson from Meadowridge Academy released a statement expressing condolences to Morrell’s family. “The Meadowridge Academy community is deeply saddened by the passing of direct care staff member, Amy Morrell. 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.”

The investigation into the incident remains ongoing, and further details have yet to be disclosed. Authorities continue to assess the situation, focusing on establishing the precise events leading up to Morrell’s death and the implications surrounding the charges against the student.