Family In 'State Of Profound Shock' After Mansfield Teen Killed
MANSFIELD (CBS) – The teenager hit and killed while riding his bike on Wednesday in Mansfield has been identified as his family said they are in a "state of profound shock and disbelief."
Shane Farrell, 13, was riding his bike on East Street around 2 p.m. when he was hit and killed by a bus that had about 30 middle and high school students on board.
Shortly after the incident, another bus took the students to a nearby school where they were met by grief counselors.
Counselors will also meet with students throughout the day Thursday.
Residents have been placing flowers, stuffed animals and candles at the spot Farrell was killed.
Farrell was a 7th grade student at Qualters Middle School.
The teenager's family released a statement asking for privacy as they cope with Farrell's death.
We are all in a state of profound shock and disbelief at this time. We have suffered a great loss and are doing our best to get through it with the love and support of our friends, family and church. Shane was a remarkable young man who touched the lives of many people. His loss has shaken us deeply and we will need time and space to get through this . We respectfully ask for privacy while we grieve the loss of Shane. Our hearts are sad but we take comfort in the wonderful memories we have with him and knowing that he is now with the Lord. Thank you for respecting our wishes and giving us privacy that this difficult time.
Mansfield resident Jaime Riley said she knew Farrell well as he often came over to her house to play with her son.
"He was a great kid. So respectful, very nice," said Riley. "It's awful. My heart breaks for them. Really good family. No parent should ever go through that. Ever."
Joe Moran, a childhood friend and classmate of Farrell's, told WBZ-TV's Susie Steimle that it was stunning to learn of his friend's death.
"I kept hearing his name and didn't want to believe it was him, and then I heard it was him and I didn't know what to do," Moran said.
"Shane was a lovable kid, everyone loved him. He could brighten up your day just by telling one of his dumb jokes"
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Carl Stevens reports