Russian boy's death ruled accidental

Posted: Friday, March 1, 2013 2:07 pm

BY JON VANDERLAAN jvanderlaan@oaoa.com

Posted on March 1, 2013

by Jon Vanderlaan

Max Alan Shatto, a 3-year-old Russian boy who was adopted by American parents who live in Gardendale, died from an accident, officials said Friday afternoon in a press conference at the Ector County Commissioners Courtroom.

Manner of death has been ruled accidental in Shatto's death. Shatto died Jan. 21, and his case drew international attention, including from Russian officials, who claimed the boy died under suspicious circumstances. No drugs were found in the boy's system.

The bruising found on child is consistent with self injury, District Attorney Bobby Bland said Friday. Bland said that information was verified by four pathologists.

Bland said the boy had a behavioral disorder that manifested itself in self injury. Bland said an internal laceration was cause of death.

The bruises manifested from the laceration, and the bruises are consistent with self injury. However, Bland said he would not speculate as to whether it was self injury that caused the bruises.

The investigation continues. Bland said he would not rule out anything in the case, including criminal charges.

Bland said there are "things that can happen that are accidents that could still result in criminal liability."

The OA will report more information on the press conference as it becomes available.

Contact Jon Vanderlaan on twitter at @OAcourts, on Facebook at OA Jon Vanderlaan or call 432-333-7763.