Medical examiner: Peekskill boy died of asphyxia by hanging but manner of death was accidental
The family of Gianlukas Illescas had said he killed himself because of bullying.
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The Westchester County medical examiner ruled that a 10 -year-old Peekskill boy died from asphyxia by hanging but determined that the manner of death was an accident.
The medical examiner said the investigation is ongoing and the ruling could change.
The family of Gianlukas Illescas had said he killed himself because of bullying.
His family blamed the school district for not responding to requests for help.
On Tuesday, Illescas' father, Christian Illescas, joined dozens of others protesting during the school board meeting.
They blamed the school district for not responding to requests for help.
The family, the school district and Peekskill police had not responded to the medical examiner's ruling as of Thursday night.
Earlier this week, Christian Illescas spoke out at the board meeting and so did Superintendent David Mauricio who held a moment of silence.
"The last six months, he was crying he was so scared to go to school," Christian Illescas said.
Mauricio said the district is reviewing records, communications and interactions to ensure allegations of misconduct are responded to properly and in a timely manner.
An online fundraiser for the Illescas family exceeded its goal of $10,000.
There will be another "Stop the Bullying" rally scheduled for Monday night outside of City Hall..
