Deep sorrow has swept through the Kent School community following the tragic death of Shea Cassidy-Teti, a beloved student and athlete who lost his life in a car accident on Saturday evening.
Shea, a member of the Class of 2026, was a talented and dedicated student-athlete who played on both the Boys Varsity Tennis and Football teams. Known for his sportsmanship, leadership, and kind nature, Shea’s passing has left an unfillable void among his friends, teammates, and teachers.
According to school officials, Shea was traveling with his parents at the time of the crash. Both parents sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical care. The devastating news of his passing was shared with the school community during an emotional gathering at St. Joseph’s Chapel on campus.
“Our prayers go out to Nash ’26, Shea’s twin, and their parents,” said Michael G. Hirschfeld, Head of School. “Shea was a bright, caring, and dedicated member of our community, and his loss is deeply felt by everyone who knew him.”
The Kent School Counseling Center, Rev. Dr. Kate Kelderman, and other faculty members have been made available to provide emotional support to grieving students and staff. Parents and guardians concerned about their children on campus were encouraged to contact the Dean on Duty at 860-601-0223.
Shea was remembered by classmates as a joyful and determined young man whose positive energy lifted everyone around him. On the tennis court and football field, he was known not just for his athletic talent but for his team spirit and humility.
Tributes have poured in from fellow students and teachers who described Shea as “a true friend with a heart of gold” and “a young man who always gave his best, no matter the challenge.”
As the community gathers to honor his memory, Kent School continues to extend its thoughts and prayers to Shea’s family—especially his twin brother, Nash, and his parents—as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
Shea Cassidy-Teti’s life, though heartbreakingly short, was filled with promise, kindness, and a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.