MELROSE, MA — One child has died after a large tree fell on a playground structure at Winthrop Elementary School on Monday afternoon, according to a statement from Melrose Public Schools.
Superintendent of Schools Cari Berman and Mayor Jen Grigoraitis announced on Tuesday morning.
“This is a very sad day at Winthrop School and for our entire Melrose Community,” the pair said in a joint statement. “Our deepest condolences go out to the family, and we ask that you please respect their privacy at this time.”
They added that the other two people who were taken to the hospital— a child and an adult have since been released and are expected to recover.
Counseling staff and other administrators are at the school Tuesday to help the community emotionally navigate the loss of the student. Melrose School Committee Chair Seamus Kelley announced that this evening’s meeting of the group has been cancelled.
"As educators, we hold our students close—not just in our classrooms, but in our hearts. In moments like this, we are reminded that our schools are more than places of learning—they are communities of care,” the Melrose Educator’s Union said in a statement. “As we process this tragedy, we are reminded how important it is to come together with kindness, patience, and care for one another. Our strength will be in how we support each other through the grief and uncertainty.”
3 Injured After Massive Tree Falls On Melrose Elementary School Playground
The police department and detectives from the Middlesex District Attorney's Office responded to the scene at 162 First St. shortly after 3 p.m. Monday afternoon. Several helicopters also circled the area. The tree is located on the property of the neighboring Phineas Upham House on 255 Upham St. The home was built in the early 18th century and has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1990.
No other information, such as the identity of the child or the other injured parties has been made available.
See Also:
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Melrose, MA Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.