• About The Dagger
  • Advertise
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

The Dagger - Local News with an Edge

  • Local
  • Politics
  • Schools
  • Sirens
  • Health/Food
  • A&E
  • Sports
You are here: Home / Schools / Principal Thibeault: Patterson Mill Middle High School Community Dealing With Sudden Death of Student

Principal Thibeault: Patterson Mill Middle High School Community Dealing With Sudden Death of Student

November 21, 2011 By Dagger News Service 28 Comments

The following letter Patterson Mill Middle High School Principal Wayne Thibeault was disseminated to parents and posted on the school’s web site:

Dear Parents of Patterson Mill Middle High Students,

The Patterson Mill Middle High School community was saddened to hear of the sudden death of one of our students. The death of any young person is a loss that, in one way or another, affects each of us. The tragic circumstances of a teen death are perhaps more difficult to accept.

We have asked the assistance of the HCPS Crisis Intervention Team to help our school community deal with this loss. We are providing support to all students and staff to help them cope with this tragedy. You may anticipate questions and a need to talk about the death with your child.

As student, parent, and staff, we are struck by a wide range of emotions when confronted with death, particularly one that is so sudden. These emotions are particularly difficult for young people to understand and may trigger many questions. Situations such as these may create a variety of reactions including: sleep disturbances, temporary loss of appetite, and/or anxiety, or fears about his/her personal health and safety. Young people may also use humor to deal with their feelings, and although this may seem odd, it is a common coping strategy. Some suggestions for dealing with any concerns your child may have include:

– Listen to your child and let him/her know you are available to answer any questions

– Encourage your child to express his/her feelings and talk to him/her about your own feelings

– Don’t be afraid to cry in his/her presence and share your own loss experiences

– Talk to your child about your personal beliefs regarding death and loss

If you have any concerns regarding your child’s reactions to this loss, please do not hesitate to call the school for assistance. The following individuals are available to answer questions or meet with your child individually:

Craig Malone, School Counselor

Mary Malone, School Counselor

Terence Hansrote, School Counselor

Kelly Truitt, School Counselor

Jane Russell, School Psychologist

Sincerely,

Wayne Thibeault, Principal

Share this:

  • Tweet
  • Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email
  • Click to print (Opens in new window) Print

Like this:

Like Loading...

About Dagger News Service

Send Us Your News
tellus@daggerpress.com

Comments

  1. Cola says

    November 21, 2011 at 9:20 pm

    What happened?

    Log in to Reply
    • Rebecca says

      November 21, 2011 at 9:39 pm

      We are not quite sure. My son and niece were classmates of his and the rumor mill says that he possible O/D’d or it was a suicide. The kids said he’d been a victim of bullying. A sad thing if true. I know I gave the kids extra hugs tonight.

      Log in to Reply
  2. Anonymous says

    November 21, 2011 at 11:30 pm

    He committed suicide because of bullying

    Log in to Reply
    • William says

      November 22, 2011 at 6:46 am

      You have no clue why he did or didn’t commit suicide. Spreading these type of rumors is pointless and destructive. Take your issues with Patterson Mill (there are many) to a different posting.

      Log in to Reply
  3. someone says

    November 22, 2011 at 5:21 am

    He suffered a self inflicted gun shot wound to the head. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

    Log in to Reply
  4. HappieGrannie says

    November 22, 2011 at 8:17 am

    Dear Someone
    And you know this how? Even the police report did not list cause of death!!! The kids at PMill need everyone’s support right now not spreading rumors. Oh and Anonymous that has yet to be proven so again keep your opinions on this to yourself till LL the facts are in. William you said it well!!!!

    Log in to Reply
  5. HappieGrannie says

    November 22, 2011 at 8:18 am

    Sorry meant to say ALL the facts in my last post

    Log in to Reply
  6. Anon says

    November 22, 2011 at 9:16 am

    I am not going to say 100% that he committed suicide because of bullying. But even if that was not the cause, he was bullied. I think this is an important learning experience. Bullying is something that happens everywhere, to people of all ages. That doesn’t mean it won’t affect that person. Love is Louder is a national campaign to stop bullying. Last week, at Towson University there was a Love is Louder week. Everyone was able to share their stories and people committed to stop bullying. It was a great way to hear how bullying affects everyone. Maybe we can find something good to teach our children in this sad, sad time.

    Log in to Reply
  7. CDEV 2 says

    November 22, 2011 at 10:21 am

    My thoughts and prayers are with this family. Whether it was or was not bullying this is a good time to talk to your kids about bullying and the effect it has on some kids.

    Log in to Reply
  8. P-Mill Parent says

    November 22, 2011 at 10:38 am

    It was not bullying. My son knew him since they were both in sixth grade. He ate lunch with another of my son’s best friends. He was very depressed since his father passed recently and unexpectedly.

    Log in to Reply
  9. Tori Scheuerman says

    November 22, 2011 at 11:07 am

    You know it amazes me how some people THINK they know what is going on in a person’s life especially when they don’t know them at all. This is how HORRIBLE RUMORS start!!!! My son was Adam’s best friend since kindergarten and even he does NOT KNOW the true reason of why this happened. It saddens me that everyone immediately goes to the bullying point. Although my son and Adam have been bullied in the past no one knows if this played a part of his death. PLEASE if you want to help then offer your love, prayers and support to Cheryl and the rest of the family at this time. Send a flower, a card, offer a dinner or to run errands. I am sure she can use a TON of support right now. Thank you and PLEASE hug your kids every day!

    Log in to Reply
    • Bruce T says

      November 22, 2011 at 11:34 am

      Agree 100% Tori. Those closest to him may never know the real reason, so quit the rumors. Just pray for the family during this difficult time.

      Log in to Reply
    • Jennifer says

      November 22, 2011 at 3:01 pm

      Rumors also start because students are not given the facts from the start, and tragic events such as these are shrouded in mystery. Teachers at PMHS, for example, were told not to mention the student’s name and refer to his death as an “unattended death.” This sort of ambiguity drums up more speculation, when what is needed is more honest and open communciation when students need it most.

      Log in to Reply
      • Mike says

        November 23, 2011 at 7:38 am

        I agree 100% with this comment.

        Log in to Reply
      • Obvious says

        November 23, 2011 at 10:11 am

        By law they are not allowed to reveal the student’s identity to other students.

        Log in to Reply
        • Observer says

          November 23, 2011 at 11:28 pm

          Additionally, “unattended death” is something of a technical legal term for a death that occurs with no medical personnel, such as doctors or nurses, present. To call the tragedy an unattended death, while sounding vague, is nevertheless accurate. It is beyond regrettable that anyone, especially a child, feels the need for a permanent solution to a temporary problem. My family is too well acquainted with such a situation. In another location on this site it is reported that a note was left in this instance: At least this family has that for some kind of answer, hollow comfort though it may be; my family did not have even that consolation. My prayers go out to the family; may the soul of this student, and the souls of all the departed, through the mercy of God rest in peace. And for those who may feel the need to do something similar, PLEASE find someone to talk to before you do something so desperate.

          Log in to Reply
        • Cdev says

          November 24, 2011 at 1:36 pm

          Additionally I think the moral discussion of suicide is something most parents should handle as different faiths take a different view of this.

          Log in to Reply
  10. CA says

    November 22, 2011 at 1:41 pm

    To the family, you are in our prayers. May your beautiful son rest in peace and may Angels surround you, delivering to you strength and love from many who keep you in their prayers.

    Log in to Reply
  11. PERSON says

    November 22, 2011 at 2:56 pm

    I hear about this yesterday while I was in 2nd period because this girl was texting her sister in schooll and her sister told her. I’ve heard that he shot himself at his house but I’ve also heard he did it in school. Does anyone know yet? We love you Adam and you did not deserve to die. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

    Log in to Reply
    • Cindy Mumby says

      November 23, 2011 at 12:35 pm

      There is no truth to the rumor that the student died at school. Please see this story based on information provided by the Harford County Sheriff’s Office: http://www.daggerpress.com/2011/11/22/death-of-patterson-mill-student-ruled-suicide-bullying-not-a-factor-investigators-say/

      Log in to Reply
  12. Not From Here says

    November 22, 2011 at 3:14 pm

    Quoted from Bel Air News and Views: “Patterson Mill Middle High School principal Wayne Thibeault yesterday posted a letter on the school’s website with tips to help parents talk to their children about the sad news that a student had died early Monday. Harford County Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Monica Worrell said the 16-year-old boy was found dead by a family member in his Abingdon home at 6:40 a.m. Monday morning. Their investigation determined the Patterson Mill High School student had committed suicide and left a note behind. Worrell said their investigation turned up no evidence that bullying was involved.”

    Log in to Reply
  13. concerned says

    November 22, 2011 at 3:33 pm

    I was saddened by this. I’m just wondering why even post an article about this? This is a private matter for the family and close friends. Rumors should NEVER be repeated. It just hurts those involved with this tragic event.

    To this young mans family and friends, my prayers are with you.

    Log in to Reply
  14. HCPS Glad Grad says

    November 22, 2011 at 4:11 pm

    Include this family in your thoughts and prayers tonight. Regardless, of the ifs, whens, or whats, this family needs to find solace. My heart goes out to them….

    Log in to Reply
  15. Michaela says

    November 22, 2011 at 5:03 pm

    The possibilty that this suicide was an act of pain from the bullying that was inflicted should scare us all into action. The scary thing about all of this is that bullying is in no way the cause. Though, it’s definately got to be a huge part of it. Someone posted above, saying that his father recently died. Also, simply the fact that he was in high school is a huge part of it. Children nowadays are bombarded with stress and peer pressure and bullying and all around rudeness from people around them, and I know how it feels to be in that position, as I’ve attempted suicide before. These are the thoughts we should be focusing on. We should be taking action like I’ve said above, to stop the large amount of suicides because, quite frankly, it sucks to be in any position to do with suicide. Whether you kow the person, you are the person, or you’re related to the person, or even if the news just made you unbearably sad, we all need to stick together and not let it reoccur. Because life is worth preserving, no matter how hard it is at any time, and suicide is preventable.

    Log in to Reply
  16. Husky Parent says

    November 23, 2011 at 7:17 am

    My daughter is a classmate and would like to attend the services. Does anyone have any information they could pass on???
    My heart aches for this family and all the students at Patterson Mill.

    Log in to Reply
  17. katie says

    November 23, 2011 at 7:49 am

    No matter how it happened or why it happened…it happened and that in itself is a sad sad trajedy. My heart goes out to his family.

    Log in to Reply
  18. Tori says

    November 23, 2011 at 11:57 am

    Dear Husky Parent,

    services have not been set yet. If you would like the information I will pass it on once it is finalized. Please include your email address.

    Log in to Reply
    • HappieGrannie says

      November 24, 2011 at 3:55 pm

      The family will receive friends at Schimunek Funeral Home of Bel Air, Inc., 610 W. MacPhail Rd., Bel Air MD 21014 on Friday, November 25, 2011, from 1-2 p.m., with a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Patterson Mill High School Library, 85 Patterson Mill Rd., Bel Air MD 21015.

      Log in to Reply

Leave a Reply to Michaela Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Sounding Off

  • “I can't wait to see what is in these emails that Bob is not wanting to share.”

    Bob Watch | Harford County Sheriff’s Office: Cassilly Administration in Violation of Maryland Public Information Act

  • “I like Gahler as well but don't forget he is backing his Sgt.Pennman who sits on the County Council. Pennman…”

    Lalta Durbal | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “This Cassilly/Penman spat I believe was initiated, at least in part, by the possibility of public housing projects being built…”

    Open Your Eyes | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “A plat revision reducing the number of lots is hardly worth you weeing your shorts over.”

    The Money Tree | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “You do know there is a system in the county called “Fast Track”. Ask your buddy Euler, he’s already used…”

    The Money Tree | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “Nothing at all suspicious about a property that has sat around for generations and then gets approved in record pace…”

    Bob Watch | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “The supposed development that everyone is referring to goes back generations. When 95 was built there were lots created by…”

    Dragonman | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “Right you are. Pretty comical that Bob Cassilly has a business registered at his home address that is not his…”

    Bob Watch | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “Quite a display of clownsmanship from Penman at last nights council meeting. Is he off his meds? You’re not in…”

    The Money Tree | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “I don’t have a dog in the fight regarding the Cassilly v. Penman conflict. I hope it is resolved in…”

    Open Your Eyes | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “Shenanigans? You’re hilarious.”

    The Money Tree | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “Yeah, that's the whole point. He is not any other county resident, he is the county executive and he and…”

    Happy Bob Real Estate | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “The amount of disinformation here is staggering. The land that is owned by Bobs family was actually platted for 14…”

    Dragonman | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “$145,000 for a part-time job and then demand more money? Pretty cushy spot he's in...maybe he needs to spend his…”

    The Money Tree | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “Cassilly makes way over 145k and in fact took a cola double of what he gave county employees. You are…”

    JJ | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “@money tree OMG! Penman is paid the same sergeant's salary that every one else earns and a rate that is…”

    Where there is Smoke | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “Good lord man, go back and read the claim being made. You folks are all over the map. First it's…”

    The Money Tree | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “@Money Tree Since you are so much in the know, Did Bob authorize the Administrator to sign as Bob Cassilly,…”

    Where there is Smoke | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “All that money must have you high. No one said executive forged a document. It is Bob claiming someone else…”

    Bob Watch | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “I will repeat - you are aware that any approvals for development go through various county agencies to ensure whatever…”

    The Money Tree | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “He had plats expedited and also some things allowed to get more lots. His Planning Advisory Board appointee Amy O’Neil…”

    JJ | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “Claiming the county executive forged a document could wind you up in civil court if you care to say that…”

    The Money Tree | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “You must be Bob with the name money tree since it seems to be raining down money on you and…”

    Bob Watch | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “Ethics complaint stating Cassilly signed off on a plat for development that involves his family which has already been easily…”

    The Money Tree | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

  • “I read the Aegis article and it looks like Penman made his ethics complaint on Feb. 14 and Cassilly made…”

    Bob Watch | Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly

Recent Posts

  • Trio Arrested In Connection With Alleged Assault, Kidnapping In Darlington March 17, 2025
  • 3P: “Developers’ Exploitation Led to Missed Opportunity for Harford County” December 19, 2024
  • 3P Protect Perryman Peninsula: Developers Exploit Horse Training Facility to Push Illegal Freight Terminal Project September 5, 2024
  • Arrest Made in Aberdeen Triple Homicide; Victims Identified April 30, 2024
  • Harford County Sheriff’s Office: Cassilly Administration in Violation of Maryland Public Information Act March 25, 2024
  • Harford County Executive Cassilly: “Once Again I Find Myself in the Position of Having to Fend Off Personal Attacks” March 20, 2024
  • Councilmember Penman Named as Subject of Harford Ethics Probe; Responds with Attacks on County Executive Cassilly February 28, 2024
  • Harford County to Purchase Land of Abandoned Eva Mar Development for New Public School in Bel Air February 27, 2024
  • Harford County Executive Cassilly Initiates Legislation for Comprehensive Zoning Review February 22, 2024
  • Edgewood Man Pleads Guilty to 1st Degree Murder February 22, 2024
  • Violent Carjacking in Aberdeen Leaves Man Injured; Victim Clings to Hood as Stolen Car Speeds Away February 17, 2024
  • Bel Air Man Found Guilty of Rape, Sex Offense, Assault; Faces Immigration Consequences February 9, 2024
  • Harford County Councilman Penman: “King Cassilly’s Intent is to Bully the County Council and Mislead our Community Members” February 6, 2024
  • Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly Announces Opposition to Legislation Allowing Freestanding Accessory Dwelling Units in Residential Areas January 16, 2024
  • Harford’s Cassilly Delivers State of the County Address: Redirecting Government to Serve People; No Tax Increases, Public Safety Upgrades, New County Parks January 12, 2024
  • Confrontation Leads to Gunshot, Murder in Bel Air December 30, 2023
  • Woman Charged with 1st-Degree Assault for Threatening Rental Company Employees in Aberdeen December 19, 2023
  • Edgewood Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Rape and Intent to Distribute Cocaine December 11, 2023
  • Mother Charged with Homicide in Death of 3-Yr-Old Son in Bel Air December 4, 2023
  • Longtime Employee of Harford County Manufacturer Sentenced to 42 Months in Federal Prison for $20 Million Kickback Scheme December 1, 2023

Archives

Extras

  • About The Dagger
  • Advertise
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

Sign up for The Daily Dagger Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to The Daily Dagger and receive new articles by email.

Copyright © 2025 ·Dagger Press LLC · Log in

%d