Toms River Mourns the Loss of a Young Teacher (Update)

The Toms River Regional School District is mourning the sudden death of a young teacher.

School district officials confirmed Tuesday that Brian Laird, a Toms River High School North History Teacher and 1995 graduate of Toms River High School East died after a sudden illness.

According to school district spokeswoman Tammi Millar, Laird began teaching at the high school in 2001. She said "We extend our deepest condolences to his parents and family."

In a written statement: High School North Principal Edward Keller wrote: "We are shocked and saddened by the sudden loss of History Teacher, Brian Laird. Based on the reaction of our current staff and students, as well as many who have already graduated, he had a profound effect on all those with whom he worked. We will miss him."

Laird also coached the boys Junior Varsity Soccer at Toms River High School South.