Swansea, Mass. — The community is in shock after a staff member at Meadowridge Academy tragically passed away following an alleged incident involving a 14-year-old student. Amy Morrell, 53, a staff member at the school, was attempting to prevent the student from leaving the dormitory without permission when she was allegedly kicked in the chest. Morrell collapsed and later died from her injuries.
What Happened
On Thursday, October 23, 2025, Amy Morrell was attempting to restrain a 14-year-old student at Meadowridge Academy, a facility that supports students with behavioral and emotional difficulties. According to the Bristol County District Attorney’s office, during the altercation, Morrell was kicked in the chest by the student. She collapsed shortly after and was given CPR before being rushed to the hospital. Despite efforts to save her, Morrell was pronounced dead.
The tragic incident has raised concerns about the handling of students at the school, with former colleagues questioning the placement of such a violent student in the environment. Mel Lynch, a former colleague of Morrell’s, expressed disbelief, saying, “How did this happen? You know, if this girl was that violent, what was she doing in that setting with other kids?”
Tributes to Amy Morrell
Amy Morrell’s death has sent shockwaves through the community, and tributes have poured in from friends, family, and colleagues. Andrew Ferruche, a close friend of Morrell and godson to her parents, fondly remembered her as someone who brought joy and laughter to everyone around her. “She’s extremely funny. She made us all laugh. She’s very kind. The life of the party, hilarious,” Ferruche said.
Ferruche shared a message from Morrell, in which she expressed the rewarding nature of her work, writing, “Being kind to other people definitely makes me feel better. My job is helping kids with troubles so it’s pretty rewarding.” Her compassion and dedication to her work were deeply appreciated by those who knew her.
School’s History and Response
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education reported that in the 2023-24 school year, Meadowridge Academy staff had restrained students 23 times, with no injuries resulting. However, a 2018 Disability Law Center investigation revealed that between 2014 and 2016, the school had over 140 police incidents, including runaways and assaults. This raises questions about the overall safety and management of the institution.
A spokesperson for the school expressed deep sadness over Morrell’s passing and announced that support services are available for students and staff members as they cope with the tragedy.
The Student’s Legal Charges
The 14-year-old student involved in the incident has been charged with assault and battery causing serious injury. Due to her age, her identity has not been released to the public. The legal consequences of her actions remain to be seen, and many, including Ferruche, have lamented the irreversible damage caused. “Amy’s already gone. You can’t fix that. This girl ruined her life,” Ferruche said, reflecting on the tragic nature of the event and the long-term impact it will have on all involved.
Closing
This is a developing story, and more information will be shared as the investigation continues. The loss of Amy Morrell has deeply impacted the Meadowridge Academy community, and her legacy of kindness, humor, and dedication to helping troubled youth will never be forgotten.
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