Coroner: Pupil died as a result of 'natural disease'

HERMITAGE, Pa. -- Preliminary autopsy results didn't determine the cause of death of a Hermitage Middle School pupil but J. Bradley McGonigle, Mercer County coroner, said the death was a "natural disease process."
Ashley Ann Bryan, 13, daughter of the Rev. Gary and Sandra Bryan of Pine Hollow Blvd., collapsed in the school library around 8:30 a.m. Tuesday. Efforts to revive her failed and she was pronounced dead at Sharon Regional Health System at 9:52 a.m.
An autopsy was performed that afternoon in Erie, but McGonigle said the preliminary results didn't pinpoint the specific cause of death. That will require some microscopic and molecular studies, he said Wednesday.
The death was a result of natural causes and Ashley had no disease that was contagious or infectious, McGonigle said.
School officials brought in grief counselors Tuesday to meet with pupils and teachers and the counselors will remain in the school as long as they are needed, said Superintendent Karen Ionta.
Services are set for 11 a.m. Saturday in Shenango Valley Church of God where the Rev. Mr. Bryan is pastor.
Calling hours are from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at Sample & amp; O'Donnell Funeral home at East State Street and Oakland Avenue in Sharon.