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Coroner identifies autistic El Dorado Hills student who died after being restrained at school

As sheriff's detectives investigate the incident, they say that there appears to be no evidence of foul play or criminal intent at this time.

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Update (Dec.12):

The Sacramento County Coroner has identified Max Benson as the student who died after being restrained at an El Dorado Hills school.

According to an inspection report from the Department of Education, sufficient evidence shows that Guiding Hands staff restrained the child "for longer than was necessary" and used more than reasonable force.

Guiding Hands' certification from the state has been suspended as the investigation continues. The school will not be allowed to accept new students as long as the suspension is in effect.

A vigil for Max will be held at Guiding Hands on Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m.

Original Story:

A 13-year-old student died after being restrained at an El Dorado Hills school.

The student was described by officials as being six feet tall, 280 pounds, and diagnosed with “severe autism.”

The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office responded to Guiding Hands School in El Dorado Hills on November 28. According to the sheriff's office, the boy had become violent and was restrained by school staff to prevent injuries to other staff and students.

While being restrained, the student became unresponsive and a teacher provided CPR until medical aid came. The student was taken to Mercy Folsom in critical condition and would later be transported to UC Davis.

The sheriff’s office was notified of his passing on November 30. As sheriff’s detectives investigate the incident, they say that there appears to be no evidence of foul play or criminal intent at this time.

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