Rhode Island woman who died after being injured on the job at Swansea school is being remembered

A local woman who died after sustaining injuries while on the job is being remembered.

According to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, on Wednesday, at just before 7:00 p.m., a physical interaction occurred between a 14-year-old female school resident at Meadowridge Academy at 664 Stevens Road in Swansea, who was attempting to leave a dorm building without permission, and staff.

During this incident, staff member 53-year-old Amy Morrell of Riverside, RI, was kicked in the chest by the juvenile as Morrell and other staff attempted to restrain her. Shortly after being struck, the victim collapsed. Staff began CPR and called 911. Swansea EMS transported the victim to a local hospital. Swansea Police along with the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office responded.

Based upon the initial investigation, the juvenile was charged with Assault and Battery causing Serious Bodily Injury and was arraigned Thursday morning in the Fall River Juvenile Court.

Morrell, who remained hospitalized overnight, was pronounced deceased Thursday afternoon.

Meadowridge Academy is a residential therapeutic school for youth and young adults, separate from Swansea Public Schools.

According to those who knew Morrell, she was a kind and patient person. She was a passionate, dedicated and compassionate staff member who loved her role at the academy and had enthusiasm for making a difference in the lives of the students.

The investigation remains active and ongoing.