Investigators awaiting forensic evidence in death of 7-year-old Newburgh boy

Authorities say that they are still waiting for forensic evidence in the case of a young Newburgh boy who was believed to have been starved to death by his caretakers.

It’s been three months since Orange County authorities say 7-year-old Peter Cuacuas was taken to the hospital after he’d been deceased for hours.

No arrests have been made so far.

Newburgh grandmother Claudette Hawk didn’t know Peter, but says she feels compelled to advocate for justice in his case.

She’s held vigils for weeks outside his home on Williams Street where the little boy allegedly died by starvation.

“Until someone is held accountable, he can’t be forgotten about. This is something that should have never been done," she says.

Newburgh police say there were signs the boy, who had autism, was abused and neglected.

Authorities have not said how Peter died or who was responsible for his care, and the case has been turned over to the Orange County District Attorney's Office.

"We always want justice for any victim, but we have to conduct a thorough investigation," says Orange County District Attorney David Hoovler.

MORE: Orange County DA: All resources devoted to case of Newburgh boy who may have died from starvation

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