A Massachusetts school staff member died after a 14-year-old student kicked her in the chest while she tried to stop the student from leaving the building without permission.
Amy Morrell, 53, was assaulted by the teenage girl on Wednesday at around 6:55 p.m. inside the dorms of Meadowridge Academy — a residential therapeutic school for youth and young adults in Swansea, NBC Boston reported, citing charges brought by the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.
Morrell and another staff member attempted to stop the juvenile from leaving the dorms when the confrontation escalated into violence.
While they tried restraining the girl, Morrell was kicked in the chest and collapsed to the ground, prosecutors said.
The 53-year-old Rhode Island native was taken to a nearby hospital, where she had been admitted in critical condition. She was pronounced dead the following afternoon, the outlet reported.
A cause of death has not yet been determined.
The student — whose name has not been released — was charged with assault and battery, causing serious bodily injury in Fall River Juvenile Court on Thursday, prosecutors said.
The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Meadowridge Academy — a residential care school for youth facing mental health and behavioral challenges about 50 miles outside Boston — said it is “deeply saddened” by Morrell’s death.
“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,” a spokesperson for the school told NBC Boston.
“Support services and resources are available to assist students and staff as we grieve this tragic loss.”
The school provides comprehensive care for young adults — ages 12 to 21 — dealing with mental health, behavioral, and trauma-related difficulties, according to its website. It operates under the Justice Resource Institute, which oversees more than a dozen schools and educational programs.
A close family friend who grew up with Morrell and considered her a relative said he was left in shock when he learned of the tragedy.
“It never crossed my mind. Never thought of it. I couldn’t believe it when I got the call today,” Andrew Ferruche told WCVB.
The close friend called it a “tragic situation” all around.
“You get in a fight, you don’t think you’re going to hit somebody and they’re going to die right there – especially if you’re a kid,” he said.
“That child’s life is probably ruined. Her life is gone. It’s just a tragic situation.”
He added that Morrell loved her job and found purpose in her work at the school.
Tina Lombardi, another friend, described Morrell as “a great mother, grandmother, and above all, a great friend” in a touching Facebook post.
“I love you and can’t believe your life has been cut short. You will always be a big part of my life,” Lombardi wrote.