Family still searching for answers after 10-year-old's death at school

WORCESTER, Mass. — A Worcester 10-year-old has died after choking on a snack in school in what the city's mayor calls this a tragic accident.

A Worcester family is mourning the loss of their little girl and now they're hoping to get a clearer picture of what happened that day, with help from the mayor.

"This was a tragic event and an accident, and my heart and prayers go out to the family," said Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty.

A devastating loss to that family as they mourn the death of 10-year-old Marilyn Ofobi Korankyewaa.

Family members tell Boston 25 News that the young girl died earlier this month after she choked on a piece of food during snack time at the Belmont Community School. She died days later.

Marilyn's uncle telling Boston 25 they are still looking for answers and have received the support of mayor petty during this difficult time.

Related: Mass. most wanted playing cards to be given to inmates to help solve cases

"I know the superintendent and the principal, I've met with the family and the principal met with them several times," Mayor Petty said.

He added that grief counselors will be sent to both the Belmont school and funeral services this week. The family says they're asking the school for a detailed report of the aid the little girl received after choking. City and school officials are both working with her parents at this time.

"We talked about any next steps we need to take with the family," the mayor said. "We'll do that after the services on Friday."

In the meantime, school officials are not commenting at this time for the sake of the family's privacy.

"She was a brilliant young lady, a rising star and a great personality, so it's just a big loss for the city of Worcester, big loss for the church and big loss for the school," said the mayor.

Services will be held this Thursday and Friday for Marilyn.

Cox Media Group