Help From Town, Schools As Community Copes With Shocking Death Of Teen

NORTH BRANFORD, CT — The Office of the State Medical Examiner ruled the stabbing death of 15-year-old Dustin Cecarelli a homicide.

As East Haven police investigators work with the State's Attorney Office in bringing charges, North Branford, and East Haven, residents are still in shock.

Town Manager Michael Downes said the violent death of the Northford teen has stunned townspeople.

"It is a shocking and terrible event that is being felt deeply throughout the North Branford community," he said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and loved ones of Dustin following this terrible tragedy."

Cecarelli died after being stabbed in the chest during a fight on the grounds of East Haven's Tuttle Elementary School Tuesday night, police said. Charges are expected in connection with the fatal stabbing that happened outside the school in a courtyard area after school hours.

East Haven Police Capt. Joseph M. Murgo said police and emergency responders arrived at the Prospect Road school at around 6:30 p.m. Tuesday. And despite life-saving measures performed by East Haven Fire Department medics, after being rushed to Yale New Haven Hospital, Cecarelli died as a result of the stab wound. The medical examiner ruled the cause of death as a stab wound to the boy's chest.

In a letter to families, Scott Schoonmaker, Superintendent of Schools, wrote that the school district is "committed to providing support to our students in this difficult time."

He said school counselors, psychologists, social workers and other staff are available to assist any student who needs support as a result of Cecarelli's killing. "Students and Parents are encouraged to reach out to teachers, counselors or administration to access the supports available for students," he said.

"We care deeply for all North Branford students, and we extend our sincerest sympathy to the family and friends of the student involved," he wrote.

Cecarelli was a North Branford High School student.

"We are deeply saddened by this news, but are here to support our students and community in the aftermath of this tragedy," Schoonmaker said.

And Town Manager Downes noted that resources are available to the community at large.

"In addition to the resources that the Superintendent and the school system are making available to students, our Social Services Department has made a trauma response team available to the Superintendent if needed," Downes told Patch. "Any impacted resident or family member that needs resources or assistance in the wake of this tragedy can reach out to our Social Services Department. I would encourage anyone that feels like they need help to please seek it out, and to know that we are here for them."

Contact North Branford Social Services at 203-484-6006.