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BOSTON — A University of Massachusetts Boston graduate student died during a school-sponsored trip to Ecuador.
Fatima Breton, 57, of Methuen, died Sunday. The cause of her death wasn't immediately available, but officials say she was hiking when she suffered a medical emergency.
Breton was a student in the John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies. She also worked in the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office multiple times, starting in 2003.
“Farewell to our friend and colleague, Fatima Breton, who embraced public service and made a career of helping others,” Suffolk County District Attorney Dan Conley said in a statement. “Her kindness and warmth made a difference for countless people in their most troubling times, and our hearts today are with those who loved her most.”
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UMass Boston Dean of Students John Silveria says counseling is being offered to students, staff and faculty.
Funeral arrangements haven't been announced.
Cox Media Group
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