A 19-year-old man was found dead inside a Staten Island apartment under what police describe as suspicious circumstances, prompting an investigation into his living conditions and the events leading up to his death.<\/p>\n
Investigators said the teen was found unconscious and unresponsive at 65 Elmwood Park Drive in the New Springville section of Staten Island. The NYPD believes the teen had autism.<\/p>\n
He had swollen ankles, bruising around his wrists and ankles and protruding ribs when officers responded to a 911 call Tuesday morning.<\/p>\n
He was pronounced dead at the scene and authorities believe he had been dead for a while.<\/p>\n
Authorities are working to determine what led to his death and whether the injuries played a role.<\/p>\n
Police are questioning the victim’s mother and stepfather after they said she made statements that did not match what officers observed inside the home.<\/p>\n
Officials say the mother claims that she heard a thud and that he fell. But detectives say those statements are inconsistent with the evidence that appears to indicate the young man may have been bound and malnourished.<\/p>\n
Neighbors interviewed by investigators told police they were unaware a 19-year-old man lived in the apartment.<\/p>\n
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.<\/p>\n
No charges have been announced, and the investigation remains ongoing. The victim’s identity has not been released.<\/p>\n
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