Franklin Regional has counseling options in place after student suicide

Flowers were left at the entrance to Franklin Regional Senior High School on Monday, a gesture of sympathy after a student committed suicide behind the school early Sunday morning.

Franklin Regional officials said resources from Westmoreland County Behavioral Health as well as the University of Pittsburgh’s youth counseling service will be available for students and staff throughout the week. High school classes were canceled Monday but resume Tuesday.

“(Franklin Regional) is also partnering with the Highmark Caring Place and other community organizations that have reached out,” district spokesperson Deana Callipare told TribLive. “As the week progresses and individual supports and needs are identified, the district will be able to determine future programs.”

First responders were called to the high school’s rear entrance, near the gymnasium, around 6 a.m. Sunday morning, where they found the body of a male student and a car on fire. On Monday afternoon, yellow caution tape was in place at the high school’s rear entrance, and the area was barricaded off to traffic.

Murrysville police did not disclose details of the incident, but said it was captured on security video and they consider the case closed.

Callipare said district officials moved flowers left near the entrance indoors away from the heat, and placed a sign out front indicating their new placement. She said the district is grateful for the compassion, empathy and support shown by both the school community and residents in general.

“Situations such as these impact individuals differently and the district is committed to providing support and services that meet student, staff and family needs during this difficult time,” she said.

Superintendent Gennaro R. Piraino Jr. urged parents to talk with their children and to contact Westmoreland County Crisis at 800-836-6010 if they need additional support.