Untimely Death of Popular Security Guard Sends Manchester High School Students Home Early Wednesday

MANCHESTER, CT — Students at Manchester High School were dismissed at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday because of the untimely death of a staff member at the school, an administrative assistant said.

The school staff member answering the phone said the students and staff were notified shortly after 10 a.m. and that the news inside the building was "upsetting."

She said students had the option of heading home at 10:30 or staying to meet with counselors. Counselors were available until 2:05 p.m., she said.

The staff member was identified as longtime security guard Barry "Mitch" Mitchell.

Manchester police Sgt. James Bairos, the supervisor of school resource officers, said Mitchell had a medical issue after he reported to work.

After he collapsed, paramedics transported Mitchell to Manchester Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.

"He was a great guy, loved and respected by everyone," Bairos said. "The kids just loved him. This is a huge loss for all of us."

Superintendent of Schools Matt Geary released the following statement Wednesday afternoon:

"We are all terribly saddened by the loss of Barry 'Mitch’ Mitchell,' a security guard at Manchester High School for the past 18 years. Mitch was truly a beloved part of the high school staff and was widely respected by everyone — especially students. Over his career he interacted with literally thousands of students and often had to tell them things that they didn’t want to hear — to get back in line in the cafeteria, or to hurry to class, or to show him a hall pass.

"That sort of role doesn’t always make you popular, but students universally liked and respected Mitch, because he treated everyone with patience and dignity. Whether it was in the hallways, or at a sporting event, or at a dance, when Mitch was around you just felt safe.

"Our school and community are stronger, better places because of him, and he will be sorely missed. We are grateful for all Mitch did to impact the lives of so many students and staff and our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time."

Photo Credit: Manchester Public Schools; Patch File