NORTHBOROUGH – The community is mourning after a student at Algonquin Regional High School passed away over the weekend.
According to a notice sent by ARHS Principal Sean Bevan to Algonquin students and their families, Junior Jon Niemi died on Saturday, Sept. 17, “unexpectedly but peacefully.”
“Our hearts go out to the Niemi family as they grieve the loss of their cherished son and brother,” Bevan wrote.
Two of Jon’s siblings are enrolled at Melican Middle School.
“Those who may have known Jon will experience with full force the loss of a friend or neighbor,” said Bevan.
He added that the school’s crisis team has been convened, and will be available throughout the week for those students and staff who need grief counseling.
According to its Facebook page, Northborough Police was dispatched around 10:40 a.m. on Sept. 17 on a report of an unresponsive 16-year-old boy.
“Upon arrival, officers located the individual and immediately began rendering medical aid,” police said. “Northborough Fire/EMS arrived on scene moments later and later declared the individual deceased.”
Police said the preliminary investigation indicated that his death wasn’t suspicious. The incident is still under investigation by the Northborough Police Department and State Police detectives assigned to the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office.
“Northborough police personnel offer sincere condolences to the boy’s family and loved ones,” police said.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family with funeral and other expenses, and more than $32,000 has already been raised.
According to the page, Niemi had health issues, but “his passing was unexpected.”
To donate, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-niemi-family-during-this-tragic-time?qid=ae7afc05f8fef3817c80799dc147fe21.
