Officials call for info on child's death

Even though he died two and a half months ago, there's still no report from an autopsy performed on an Omaha Indian boy who died while under the care of tribal foster parents in South Sioux City. That's one of the reasons authorities have put out a call for public assistance Wednesday in the death of 20-month-old Nathaniel Saunsoci-Mitchell.

Recent developments, including information obtained Tuesday about Saunsoci-Mitchell, prompted the request, Dakota County Attorney Ed Matney said in a press release.

"Several people recently have approached members of Nathaniel's blood family, the Saunsocis, claiming to have information and/or evidence about Nathaniel's injuries and/or death and about the individual or individuals allegedly responsible," he said in the release. "I think people -- if they have any information about this situation or about injuries to Nathaniel -- have a moral obligation to come forward to the police so that we can follow up on any information that's out there."

Medical experts have attributed Saunsoci-Mitchell's death to non-accidental head injuries that led to his death. However, medical and preliminary autopsy results also revealed fractures in the collarbone area and in one of his legs. The leg fracture was an old one; the toddler's leg was in a cast when he arrived at Mercy on Sept. 22, and there was a bite mark on the end of his nose.

Saunsoci-Mitchell died Sept. 24 at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.

His final autopsy report has not been filed because the pathologist who will prepare it has requested additional analysis from specialists in Iowa City, Matney said in the release.

Authorities are seeking information on the following subjects:

-- any of Saunsoci-Mitchell's injuries or his death.

-- any observed interactions between Saunsoci-Mitchell and his tribal foster parents in South Sioux City.

-- any observed interactions between Saunsoci-Mitchell and any other adults.

The Sioux City Journal has chosen not to print the names of Nathaniel's last foster parents unless criminal charges are brought against them.

Anyone with information is urged to immediately call Crimestoppers at (712) 258-8477. All tips will remain anonymous