Massachusetts School Staffer Dies After Assault by Student

A staff member at Meadowridge Academy in Swansea, Massachusetts, died following an alleged assault by a 14-year-old student. The incident occurred on the evening of October 16, 2025, when the student attempted to leave a dormitory without permission. According to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, during the altercation, the student kicked Amy Morrell, 53, in the chest, resulting in fatal injuries.

The incident unfolded around 18:55 local time as Morrell attempted to restrain the girl. After the kick, Morrell collapsed, prompting immediate CPR from fellow staff members. Emergency services were called, and she was transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead the following afternoon.

Family friend Andrew Ferruche expressed shock at the news, describing the event as a “horrible accident.” He noted, “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.” Ferruche emphasized the tragic nature of the situation, which has now impacted both Morrell’s family and the young student involved.

Morrell had a public social media profile indicating she resided in Riverside, Rhode Island, and was an alumna of the University of Maine. The teenager accused of the assault has not been publicly identified. She faces charges of assault and battery causing serious bodily injury and was arraigned in Fall River Juvenile Court on the morning of October 17.

Meadowridge Academy’s Role and Community Response

Meadowridge Academy, located about 50 miles south of Boston, is described as a comprehensive therapeutic residential school. It provides treatment for young adults facing mental health issues and behavioral challenges. The school is operated by the Justice Resource Institute, a Massachusetts nonprofit dedicated to social justice and providing opportunities for vulnerable populations.

In a statement, the academy expressed deep sorrow over Morrell’s passing, extending condolences to her family and acknowledging the loss felt by the school community. They noted that support services are available for students and staff in light of this tragedy.

Enrollment data from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education indicated that Meadowridge Academy had 35 students registered for the 2024-25 school year. The institution aims to create a supportive environment for its students, many of whom have complex trauma histories.

The police investigation into the incident is ongoing, with local authorities working to gather more information regarding the circumstances surrounding Morrell’s death. While the community mourns the loss of a dedicated staff member, the implications of this incident will likely resonate within the school and beyond as stakeholders reflect on the challenges faced in such educational environments.