School Employee Dies After Being ‘Kicked in the Chest’ by 14-Year-Old Student

Tragic Death at Meadowridge Academy

A Massachusetts school community is mourning after a 53-year-old staff member, Amy Morrell, died following a violent encounter with a 14-year-old student.
According to reports from ABC News, WCVB, and The New York Times, the incident occurred on Wednesday, October 15, at Meadowridge Academy — a therapeutic residential school in Swansea that serves students with learning disabilities and medical fragility.

Authorities say that Morrell, a direct care staffer, was attempting to stop the student from leaving her dorm without permission when the teenager allegedly kicked her in the chest.

Emergency Response and Investigation

Shortly after the incident, Morrell collapsed as staff members rushed to perform CPR and called 911.
She was transported to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead on Thursday, October 16.

The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, led by Thomas M. Quinn III, confirmed that the 14-year-old has been charged with assault and battery causing serious bodily injury.
The teen was arraigned in Fall River Juvenile Court, and the case remains under active investigation.

Community Shock and Calls for Change

In a statement obtained by The New York Times, the Justice Resource Institute, which partners with Meadowridge Academy, expressed deep sadness over Morrell’s passing, saying:

“The Meadowridge Academy community is deeply saddened by the loss of direct care staff member Amy Morrell.”

Jennie DunKley, an advocate for special education students, told WCVB that the tragedy highlights the urgent need to review safety protocols and behavioral intervention methods in special education environments.
She emphasized the importance of implementing preventive strategies and non-confrontational tools to manage crisis situations safely.

About Meadowridge Academy

Meadowridge Academy serves students aged 12 to 21 who may experience a range of emotional, cognitive, or medical challenges.
The school’s mission focuses on healing and development, offering academic programs alongside clinical and residential support.

The recent tragedy has reignited national discussions about how therapeutic schools can protect both staff and students while maintaining compassionate and effective care environments.

Final Thoughts

The death of Amy Morrell is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks educators and caregivers face when working with vulnerable youth.
As investigations continue, families and professionals across the country are calling for stronger safety standards, training, and mental health resources in therapeutic schools.