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The attorney for a 13-year-old boy accused of murder in Newburgh is calling for a deeper investigation into the tragic incident. The boy is charged with the murder of his friend, 11-year-old Matthew DeGroat, who died from a gunshot wound on October 9. The shooting occurred at DeGroat's home on North Miller Street, where the suspect had been invited.
Attorney Laisa Pertet, representing the accused, told News 12 that there are many unanswered questions about the circumstances of the shooting. She has requested a thorough review by Child Protective Services and local investigators. Authorities have not disclosed how the gun was obtained or who owned it.
The DeGroat family has expressed their grief and gratitude to the community and law enforcement for their support. In a statement to News12 Westchester, they thanked the City of Newburgh and police agencies involved in the case. The family also voiced their support for SNUG, a statewide anti-gun violence program.
The 13-year-old suspect, whose identity remains confidential due to his age, has been charged with second-degree murder and is being held without bail at a juvenile facility. According to the New York Post, the shooting may have been an act of revenge related to an earlier incident involving Matthew's older brother.