District Attorney says father of 11-year-old who died from suspected overdose is a ‘crucial witness… could be more’

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — Even when the Onondaga County District Attorney won’t say a lot about an investigation, he speaks volumes.

“Anybody that participated criminally in this little boy’s death will be prosecuted and held accountable,” said D.A. Bill Fitzpatrick.

The extended family suspect it was a drug overdose based on conversations with doctors at the hospital.

Those being held accountable for the death of 11-year-old Ashton Degonzaque could include the boy’s father.

Fitzpatrick said: “He’s a crucial witness and depending on where the evidence goes, could be more than that.”

The boy was found not breathing in the home on North Side home he shared with his dad. Syracuse Codes Enforcement found feces-filled bathtubs and urine in drink containers.

“Any sentient human being who took a look at this house, and in 20-seconds, realize this boy was in danger,” said the D.A.

The danger wasn’t enough for any agency to pull him to safety. Fitzpatrick says his authority as district attorney allows him to review all agencies involved. The investigation will result in the review of thousands of records.

Fitzpatrick wouldn’t comment on the conduct of two C.P.S. workers being fired by Onondaga County.

“My office is investigating anyone and any agency, any individual, that had any direct or indirect relationship to the cause of this little boy’s death,” said Fitzpatrick.