For Immediate Release

Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2015

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Statement of Principal Marianne Farrell Regarding the Death of Person Believed to be a Melrose High School Student

MELROSE — Principal Marianne Farrell releases the following statement regarding the death of someone who is believed to be a Melrose High School student last night:

“As stated in a letter sent home to parents this morning, an individual was struck and killed by a commuter rail train that was traveling toward the Highlands station last night.

“While an investigation is still unfolding, and although the state Medical Examiner has not yet released a positive identification of the person involved, all indicators point to a Melrose High School student as is the victim of this tragedy. Once the individual has been positively identified by the state Medical Examiner, this information will be provided to our school community. We ask that you continue to respect the sensitive and confidential nature of this process as it unfolds.

“We extend the deepest sympathy to the victim’s family and understand that situations like this can be extremely difficult for students to process. We will do all we can to support our students as they grieve the loss of a friend, peer and community member.

“Due to the tragic nature of these circumstances, the following actions have be taken:

“1. There will be no classes or exams on Wednesday, Jan. 20. Mid-year exams have been postponed until Thursday, Jan. 21. Although, there will be no classes or exams on Jan. 20, the school will be open for students who wish to speak with a counselor.

“2. Grief counselors will be made available tomorrow for all students and staff at Melrose High School. The school is open tomorrow from 7:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. for any student who wishes to come to school and meet with someone. The district’s seven school psychologists and eight guidance counselors will also be available to speak with individual students or small groups.”

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