A 14-year-old disabled resident died on 28 July at the State Institution 'Kostanay Children's Centre for the Provision of Special Social Services' during an afternoon nap. An investigation is underway into the death of the minor, expert examinations have been ordered, and the circumstances of the incident are being established.
WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT THE INCIDENT
According to data from the Kostanay Region Human Rights Centre, the tragedy occurred during an afternoon nap. Citing the institution's staff, the organisation reported that the teenager suffered a cardiac arrest. Furthermore, according to employees, his condition may have deteriorated due to extreme heat and stuffiness in the rooms.
The Human Rights Centre also stated that care staff had repeatedly asked for air conditioners to be installed in the rooms where the children are located. To support its claims, the organisation refers to audio messages from employees in a work chat.
WHAT STATE BODIES REPORTED
The Kostanay Region Police Department reported that the necessary procedural actions are being carried out regarding the death of the minor. Following the investigation, a legal assessment will be provided and a procedural decision will be made in accordance with current legislation.
The Department for Coordination of Employment and Social Programmes of the Kostanay Region confirmed the death of the resident. The head of the department, Dinara Karymsakova, told local media that a criminal case has been registered regarding this incident, investigative measures are underway, and expert examinations have been ordered. The causes of death will be established during the course of the investigation.
POSITION OF THE DEPARTMENT ON LIVING CONDITIONS
According to Dinara Karymsakova, round-the-clock care for the residents is organised at the centre. Junior medical staff are constantly present in the groups, medical stations are operational, rounds and medical check-ups are conducted twice a day, and a paediatrician and a neurologist hold consultations.
She also reported that throughout the day the child's condition was assessed as satisfactory, with no complaints or elevated temperature noted; after lunch he was put down for an afternoon nap.
Furthermore, the head of the department refuted information about the lack of air conditioners. According to her, air conditioners are installed in all groups of the centre, and the drinking regime and temperature conditions are under special control.
WHAT ELSE IS KNOWN
At present, the official cause of death has not been announced. It will be determined based on the results of the ordered expert examinations and investigative actions.
Final conclusions about the causes of the incident will be made after the investigation is completed.
