New York State Police Continue Homicide Investigation Into 2022 Death of 7-Year-Old

New York State Police are continuing to investigate the death of an 7-year-old boy from Johnstown that has been ruled a homicide.

Child Found Unresponsive at Johnstown Home

According to State Police, troopers responded to a home in Johnstown on August 9, 2022, after receiving a report of an unresponsive child.

The child, identified as Hunter Degroat, was found unconscious at the residence.

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Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures before transporting him to Nathan Littauer Hospital, where he later died.

Autopsy Determines Death Was a Homicide

Following an autopsy and an extensive investigation, authorities determined that Hunter’s death was the result of a homicide.

According to a 2025 press release, Hunter's cause of death was listed as a skull fracture, subdural hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, cerebral cortical contusions, and cerebral edema due to blunt force trauma.

Investigation Remains Active

State Police say the investigation remains ongoing as they continue to work to identify the person or persons responsible. Officials say they are pursuing leads and remain committed to bringing justice in the case.

Anyone with information related to the death of Hunter Degroat is asked to contact New York State Police in Fonda at 518-457-6811 or email crimetip@troopers.ny.gov.

State Police say the focus remains on holding those responsible accountable while seeking answers for the child and the community.