Tragedy struck at a Massachusetts school when a staff member lost her life following an altercation with a student. The incident occurred when a 14-year-old girl kicked the staff member while attempting to leave the premises without authorization.

The victim, 53-year-old Amy Morrell, was attacked on Wednesday evening around 6:55 p.m. within the dormitories of Meadowridge Academy, a residential therapeutic institution located in Swansea. The details of the incident were reported by NBC Boston, referencing information from the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.

The confrontation began when Morrell, alongside another staff member, tried to prevent the student from exiting the dorms. The situation unfortunately escalated into violence.

During their efforts to restrain the teenager, the student kicked Morrell in the chest, causing her to collapse, according to the prosecutors.

Morrell, a resident of Rhode Island, was immediately transported to a nearby hospital. Despite being admitted in critical condition, she sadly passed away the following afternoon.

A cause of death has not yet been determined.

The student — whose name has not been released — was charged with assault and battery, causing serious bodily injury in Fall River Juvenile Court on Thursday, prosecutors said.

The investigation remains active and ongoing. 

Meadowridge Academy — a residential care school for youth facing mental health and behavioral challenges about 50 miles outside Boston — said it is “deeply saddened” by Morrell’s death.

“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,” a spokesperson for the school told NBC Boston.

“Support services and resources are available to assist students and staff as we grieve this tragic loss.”

The school provides comprehensive care for young adults — ages 12 to 21 — dealing with mental health, behavioral, and trauma-related difficulties, according to its website. It operates under the Justice Resource Institute, which oversees more than a dozen schools and educational programs.

A close family friend who grew up with Morrell and considered her a relative said he was left in shock when he learned of the tragedy.

“It never crossed my mind. Never thought of it. I couldn’t believe it when I got the call today,” Andrew Ferruche told WCVB.

The close friend called it a “tragic situation” all around.

“You get in a fight, you don’t think you’re going to hit somebody and they’re going to die right there – especially if you’re a kid,” he said.

“That child’s life is probably ruined. Her life is gone. It’s just a tragic situation.”

He added that Morrell loved her job and found purpose in her work at the school.

Tina Lombardi, another friend, described Morrell as “a great mother, grandmother, and above all, a great friend” in a touching Facebook post.

“I love you and can’t believe your life has been cut short. You will always be a big part of my life,” Lombardi wrote.