FORT MILL, S.C. — Editor's Note: This story discusses suicide, which may include descriptions of violent acts. Reader discretion is advised.
The Fort Mill community is remembering a high school music educator who died over the weekend.
Andrew Kreiger, the associate director of bands at Nation Ford High School, died by suicide on Saturday, according to Fort Mill School District officials.
Nation Ford High School Principal Chris Chandler issued a statement to families, saying:
It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of assistant band director, Andrew Krieger. We recently learned that he died by suicide. This news is both heartbreaking and difficult to process. He was an amazing band director and had a deep impact on our school. He was loved by his students, and he loved them just as much.
As caring adults, we can help our children process this loss by understanding common reactions and providing a safe place for them to ask questions and talk through what they are feeling. Please see the attached handout that provides additional information about supporting our children.
Our District Crisis Team will be at Nation Ford on Monday at 7:45 am to support our staff and students. They will be in the band room in the morning and in the counseling wing throughout the day. They will continue to do so for as long as needed. If you have concerns about your child and would like to access additional support, please reach out to me or your child’s school counselor.
We will get through this difficult time together. Our thoughts will continue to be with the Krieger family and our band community during this heartbreaking time.
It is not confirmed if a homegoing ceremony has been announced at this time.
If you or a loved one are facing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, there is help readily available. You can call Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat with them online. There are also resources in North Carolina available here and in South Carolina available here.