Death of a 9-Year-Old in Watervliet Under Investigation by the NYSP

There's nothing worse than hearing about the death of a young child, and unfortunately, this is the second time in a month that a little person's life was cut short in the Capital Region.

9-Year-Old Dies in Upstate New York

Sad news to report out of Albany County: Police say a 9-year-old died over the weekend at Edwin Joslin Apartments in Watervliet, and while State Police are awaiting the results of the autopsy, little is known about this recent upstate tragedy.

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Here's what we do know about the young child's death from the New York State Police:

• On August 2, 2025, State Police responded to a residence on 2nd Avenue in Watervliet, NY, to assist the Watervliet Police Department with a death investigation of a 9-year-old child. The child was pronounced deceased at Samaritan Hospital.
• The Watervliet Police Department has transferred the investigation to the New York State Police, and it remains ongoing with their support and collaboration.
• There is no perceived threat to the public. The cause of the child's death is pending further investigation.

According to a report from News Channel 13, the cause of the child’s death is pending autopsy results, and their name has not yet been released.

State Police Take Over the Case

Why is this being handled by the State Police and not the Watervliet Police?

State police agencies, according to sources, can take over from local police in situations due to "jurisdictional issues, the complexity or severity of a crime, or when local resources are overwhelmed."

While that may not be the situation in this case, it’s important to note that State Police have jurisdiction across New York and can be called in to assist or lead investigations, or respond to emergencies that go beyond the resources of local law enforcement.

We'll keep you posted when there is updated information about this case.