By Wendy Reuer
Forum News Service
WEST FARGO, N.D. – Preliminary autopsy results have confirmed that a 6-month old who was found not breathing at a day care died after a blunt force trauma to the head.
Owen Skodje, the son of Casey Skodje and his wife Kristen Hunstad of Fargo, died June 2 at the Children's Hospital in Minneapolis after he was found not breathing at a West Fargo day care the day before.
The Hennepin County Medical Examiner's Office will be doing more tests that include tissue sampling and toxicology reports this week to help determine if Skodje was injured while at the day care on June 1 or at another time, West Fargo Detective Tim Runcorn said.
"We're hoping it gives us a better time frame," he said.
The baby was pronounced dead June 2, but his body was kept on life support until Thursday or Friday to allow his organs to be donated.
Casey Skodje wrote about Owen's death in a post on the CaringBridge website Thursday night.
"He has touched so many people, and brought so many people together, that in such a short time has done amazing deeds," he wrote. "I can't imagine what he would have accomplished, given more time. I am impressed by the legacy he leaves behind. It was difficult to not be selfish with our treasure, but he has richness to spare."
Services for Owen Skodje will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar, Minn. Visitation is from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
