By: Richard L. Smith
Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll has announced that charges have been filed against a licensed nurse in connection with the tragic death of a disabled man, Mr. Matthew Rossi, who passed away shortly after being transported on his school bus.
The incident, which occurred on February 10, has raised serious concerns regarding the care provided to vulnerable individuals.
The investigation began when East Hanover Police responded to a distressing call on that fateful day, reporting an unconscious male at a residence.
Official said Mr. Rossi, a 19-year-old wheelchair-bound individual, had just returned home on the bus from his school.
Despite immediate efforts by EMS personnel and East Hanover Police officers to administer CPR and other life-saving interventions, the victim was sadly pronounced deceased.
As part of their standard procedure, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Rossi's untimely death.
Subsequent findings revealed that the victim had been accompanied on the bus by a licensed nurse, Mr. Emelio J. Rivera.
It is alleged that Rivera, entrusted with the responsibility of caring for Mr. Rossi, neglected to perform certain crucial acts required for the victim's well-being, thus creating a substantial risk to his life.
In light of the investigation's outcomes, Emelio J. Rivera, 29, of Carlstadt, now faces serious charges, including one count of Endangering Another Person and Neglect of a Disabled Person.
These charges were officially filed on November 2, 2023. Rivera has been remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility and is awaiting his first appearance in court.
Prosecutor Carroll expressed his condolences to the Rossi family for their profound loss, recognizing the complexity of the investigation that involved comprehensive analysis of medical reports and available data.
He also commended the dedicated efforts of East Hanover Police officers and medics who made every attempt to save Mr. Rossi's life on that tragic day.
Image Courtesy: Anabela Rossi