Published in the January 22, 2016 edition
MELROSE — This week the Melrose High community mourned one of its own after Robert Davey was struck and killed on the commuter rail tracks above Tremont Street and the Lynn Fells Parkway late Monday afternoon.
Davey’s Facebook page was flooded with comments this week from grief-stricken friends and peers, and last weekend the victim seemed excited that the New England Patriots were heading back to the AFC Championship game Sunday.
Principal Marianne Farrell wrote, “It is with a very heavy heart that I can confirm the passing of Melrose High School student Robert Davey. Robert was struck by a train on Monday evening near the overpass of Lynn Fells Parkway and Tremont Street.
“Grief counselors were made available (Wednesday) and will continue to be available over the coming weeks as students, staff and the community deal with this tragic loss.
“Robert was well liked by students and staff at Melrose High School. We will remember his smile that would light up any room. He will also be remembered for his love of basketball. He was a dear friend to many, and will be greatly missed by our school community.
“Please keep his family and friends in your thoughts as they continue to deal with this tragic loss.
Melrose High and many others in the area took mid-year exams this week. On Wednesday, those were put off one day here so students could meet with each other and with grief counselors.
In a statement Tuesday, Melrose High Principal Marianne Farrell wrote: “As reported yesterday evening, an individual was struck and killed by a commuter rail train that was traveling toward the Highlands station. An investigation is still unfolding as to the circumstances giving rise to this incident. Although the state Medical Examiner has not yet released a positive identification of the individual involved, all indications are that a Melrose High School student is the victim of this tragedy. Once the individual has been positively identified by the state Medical Examiner, this information will be provided to our school community. We ask that you continue to respect the sensitive and confidential nature of this process as it unfolds.
Given the tragic circumstances surrounding this individual’s untimely death, the following actions will be taken:
1) There will be no classes or exams on Wednesday, Jan. 20. Due to the circumstances mid-year exams have been postponed until Thursday, Jan. 21. Although, there will be no classes or exams on Wednesday, Jan. 20, the school will be open for students who wish to speak with a counselor.
2) Grief counselors will be made available tomorrow for all students and staff at Melrose High School. The school is open tomorrow from 7:45 to 3 for any student who wishes to come to school and meet with someone. The district’s seven school psychologists and eight guidance counselors will be available to speak with individual students or small groups.“
There was also a revised schedule for mid-year exams. Those will continue Monday and Tuesday next week.
Melrose Police received a call at 5:37 p.m. that someone possibly had been struck by a train.
Police continue to investigate. No foul play is suspected, however.
Mayor Rob Dolan said Monday, “With great sadness I report that at approximately 5:30 p.m. this evening, Melrose police and fire departments responded to a report of a person being struck by the MBTA commuter train near the Lynn Fells Parkway overpass on Tremont Street. Due to the ongoing investigation and notification to family, we cannot provide additional information at this time. The Melrose Police, in cooperation with the transit police, are conducting a thorough investigation of this very sad and unfortunate situation.”
