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DCFS Investigating Neglect Allegation In Boy's Drowning

STEGER, Ill. (CBS) -- State officials were investigating allegations of neglect against the adult sister of a 10-year-old boy who drowned in a swimming pool last week in south suburban Steger.

Anthony Perkins, of University Park, drowned on Friday in a pool at 316 E. 34th St. in Steger. He was pronounced dead at 3:31 p.m. Friday at St. James Hospital and Health Center in Chicago Heights.

Police said the drowning happened in the pool at the New Colonies apartment complex in Steger and the boy's death has been ruled accidental.

But the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is investigating an allegation of neglect against Anthony's adult sister, who was caring for the boy and his siblings at the time of the drowning.

The boy was swimming in the in-ground pool at the complex when the incident occurred, said Brent Kohere, regional manager for New Colonies.

Residents who were in the pool pulled the child out and a pool attendant called 911, Kohere said.

"It was tragic," he said.

The pool was closed for the rest of the day as police and the Steger health department investigated, Kohere said. The health department determined the pool is in compliance with regulations and could be reopened, he said.

(The Sun-Times Media Wire contributed to this report.)

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