Swansea Educator Dies After Confrontation With Student

SWANSEA (WBSM) — A staff member at a school in Swansea has died following a physical altercation with a 14-year-old female student.

According to Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III, Amy Morrell, 53, of Riverside, Rhode Island was pronounced deceased this afternoon after being injured in the altercation on Wednesday.

Incident at Meadowridge Academy

The incident took place at Meadowridge Academy, located at 664 Stevens Road in Swansea. The D.A.’s Office described Meadowridge as “a residential therapeutic school for youth and young adults,” while the school’s website says the facility “offers comprehensive treatment to adolescent males and females with mental health issues, behavioral difficulties and complex trauma histories through the use of individualized care and strengths-based, trauma-informed treatment.”

How the Altercation Unfolded

The physical altercation took place at about 6:55 p.m. on October 15 between Morrell and a 14-year-old female school resident who was attempting to leave a dorm building without permission.

The girl kicked Morrell in the chest as Morrell and other staff members attempted to restrain her. Shortly after being struck, Morrell collapsed. Staff members attempted CPR and called 911, and Morrell was taken by EMS to a local hospital.

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Juvenile Charged in the Case

An investigation began by Swansea Police and Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the District Attorney’s Office. The initial investigation led to the juvenile being charged with assault and battery causing serious bodily injury. She was arraigned this morning in Fall River Juvenile Court.

Morrell had remained hospitalized overnight and was pronounced deceased this afternoon. The District Attorney’s Office said “the investigation remains active and ongoing,” but did not say if any additional charges are expected following the victim’s passing.