Staffer at Mass. school dies after assault by student, DA says

A staff member at a school in Swansea died after being assaulted by a 14-year-old student on Wednesday, officials announced Thursday. 

Amy Morrell, 53, a staffer at Meadowridge Academy, was attempting to restrain a girl who was trying to leave a dorm building without permission when the girl kicked her in the chest, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn said in a press release Thursday. 

Morrell, of Riverside, Rhode Island, collapsed after being struck, and staff began CPR, officials said. 

Morrell was hospitalized overnight and pronounced dead Thursday afternoon, authorities said. 

The teen is now charged with assault and battery causing serious bodily injury and was arraigned in Fall River Juvenile Court Thursday morning, the DA said. 

Meadowridge Academy, located at 664 Stevens Road, is a residential school that provides treatment to children and young adults with a history of trauma as well as mental health and behavior issues, the school says on its website.

“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. Support services and resources are available to assist students and staff as we grieve this tragic loss,” the school said in a statement to Boston.com.

An investigation is ongoing, Quinn said.