Community Corner

Manchester Teen Dies Suddenly at School

Superintendent confirms death of girl Thursday afternoon

A 14-year-old Manchester Township High School student who died after suffering cardiac arrest Thursday afternoon has been identified as sophomore Francesca Marie Previti, Superintendent of Schools David Trethaway confirmed. 

The girl was walking around the school's track during physical education class at the end of the school day Thursday when she "showed signs of distress," Trethaway said.

A teacher used a radio to call nurse for help and a Manchester police officer at the school also responded.

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"They took all the necessary steps," Trethaway said.

Previti was then transported from the school on Colonial Drive to Community Medical Center in Toms River by paramedics and Manchester's first aid squad, said Capt. Lisa Parker.

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It is unclear if she died on route to the hospital or once there, Trethaway said.

A crisis management team is at the high school on Friday, and others from the nearby Lakehurst and Lacey school districts have come to Manchester to assist, Trethaway said.

Principal Alexander George issued a letter on the school's website Friday morning expressing sorrow and directing parents to grief counselling resources that can be contacted over the weekend.

"We are all deeply saddened by this loss and had our crisis management procedures in place to help your children with their reactions to this tragedy," he wrote.

Trethaway said that staff are "trying to keep as regular a day as possible."

"The students are going through their regular day, but it is a different day," he said.

Activities and sporting events remain on normal schedules, Trethaway said. The Hawk's football team will host Lacey tonight and the superintendent said that he expects some mention of the girl's passing before the game.

Trethaway also thanked police and staff for their efforts in attempting to save the girl.


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