Swansea, MA — A Massachusetts school community is mourning the loss of a beloved staff member who collapsed and died after being kicked in the chest by a student during a physical altercation this week.
The incident occurred at Meadowridge Academy, a residential therapeutic school for youth and young adults located at 664 Stevens Street in Swansea, shortly before 7 p.m. on Wednesday, according to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.
Deadly Altercation at Meadowridge Academy
Officials said staff members were attempting to restrain a 14-year-old girl who tried to leave her dormitory without permission when 53-year-old Amy Morrell, a staff member from Riverside, Rhode Island, was struck in the chest.
Morrell collapsed moments later and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead Thursday afternoon, investigators confirmed.
“The Meadowridge Academy community is deeply saddened by the passing of direct care staff member, Amy Morrell,” a school spokesperson told Boston 25 News. “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.”
According to Boston 25 News, the 14-year-old student was arraigned Thursday in Fall River Juvenile Court on a charge of assault and battery causing serious bodily injury.
Remembering Amy Morrell
Family and friends described Morrell as a kind-hearted and dedicated woman who always put others before herself. A longtime friend, Andrew Ferruche, said she had been “like family” to him for years.
“She’s just been family,” Ferruche said. “When I needed her the most, she’s always been there.”
He added that those who knew her well often called her by her maiden name, Blanchette, remembering her for her humor and warmth.
“She’s just a great person and very, very funny on top of it,” Ferruche shared.
Morrell’s sudden passing has left her colleagues and loved ones in shock. Many have shared photos and tributes online, remembering her commitment to helping vulnerable youth through her work at Meadowridge Academy.
Investigation Underway
Authorities say Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the District Attorney’s Office are working alongside Swansea police to investigate the circumstances leading up to Morrell’s death.
Officials have not yet disclosed whether additional charges may be filed, pending the outcome of the investigation and results of the medical examiner’s report.
The school remains open, with grief counselors and mental health support services made available to students and staff members.
Community Mourns a “Tragic Loss”
The school’s statement described Morrell’s death as a “tragic loss” for both students and faculty. Community members have been leaving flowers and messages of support near the school entrance, expressing condolences for a woman many saw as a mentor and friend.
Her passing has sparked renewed discussions about staff safety in therapeutic school environments, where workers often care for youth with complex behavioral and emotional needs.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking case and how schools can better protect their staff and students? Share your views in the comments below.
