Mystery Surrounds Death of 7-Year-Old in Washington State
Authorities are investigating the unexpected death of a young boy in Spokane Valley, Washington, who exhibited symptoms of illness shortly before he was found deceased.
A seven-year-old boy with no known prior health issues died unexpectedly at his home in Spokane Valley, Washington, last week. The Spokane County Sheriff's Office received a report of a deceased child at approximately 3:50 p.m. last Friday.
Initial information provided to law enforcement indicated that the boy had been sick and vomited shortly before his death. The Spokane County Medical Examiner's Office has identified the child as Evan Leeper. The cause of death remains unknown and is currently under investigation, with officials classifying the case as an undetermined/unexpected death.
"Detectives have conducted interviews and are working with the Spokane County Medical Examiner’s Office to learn what occurred before this tragic loss of a young life and what may have caused it," a press release from the sheriff's office stated. The medical examiner's office defines an undetermined death as one where there is insufficient evidence to rule out accident, homicide, suicide, or natural causes.
Evan's aunt, Myriam Colwell, has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to help cover expenses for his cremation, urn, celebration of life, and other related costs, as well as to support his older brother, Tyler. Colwell wrote on the fundraising page that Evan "had so much life ahead of him, so many more memories to make, so many more birthdays, laughs, hugs, and moments that should have been his."
"One moment he is here, and the next we are trying to figure out how to say goodbye to a little boy who should have had his entire life ahead of him," she stated. "Right now, our family is trying to come together and give Evan the farewell he deserves while also making sure Tyler knows that he is surrounded by people who love him."
As of Thursday morning, the campaign had raised over $700 toward its $1,600 goal. Community members have also established a spontaneous memorial outside the boy's home, featuring toys, notes, cards, and food items, according to Colwell's posts on a Facebook page dedicated to honoring Leeper's memory.
The Daily Mail has reached out to the boy's family and Spokane County authorities for further comment.