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STAMFORD, Conn. -- Westhill High School officials announced on its website that one of its juniors "passed away" on Thursday night. Numerous publications are reporting the student committed suicide.
"It is with extreme sadness that we report that one of our Juniors passed away last night," the school posted on its website. "We request that you please watch very carefully over your children and we will do whatever is necessary to keep our students safe during the school day."
The school is offering grief assistance at (203) 977-4838.
The school system released an official statement Friday but did not identify the student. Westhill's "Back To School Dance" scheduled for Friday has been canceled.
The Stamford Advocate reported the student was a 16-year-old female.
"We are saddened to learn of the death of one of our students. We are deeply affected by this tragedy and our sympathy goes out to the student’s family and friends," the statement read.
"The death of a student affects our entire school community," it continued. "We provided grief counselors, psychologists, and social workers for any staff or student at school today and will continue to offer support next week. Additionally, the Stamford Public Schools and the Child Guidance Center will also offer grief counseling and support to students and their families at the Yerwood Center tomorrow, Saturday, September 28th between 10:00am and 1:00pm.
"Our high school principals are also in the process of planning awareness education for students regarding resources and support available to all who may be struggling with personal or school issues. "We are all dedicated to extending our outreach to support all students in our community."
The police investigation into the incident is being directed by Lt. Diedrich Hohn, but he did not return a call seeking comment. Stamford police also have not released the name of the student.
Check back with The Daily Voice as more information becomes available.
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