Police: NY State Man Dead After Being Assaulted By His Parents in Church

A 19-year-old New Hartford man is dead after being assaulted by his very own mother and father while at church.

The New Hartford Police Department is reporting that Lucas Leonard's parents, 65 year-old Bruce T. Leonard and 59 year-old Deborah R. Leonard, were arrested Tuesday and charged with manslaughter. The assault reportedly took place in the Word of Life Church.

Police go on to say that Lucas Leonard was dropped off at Faxton St. Luke's Hospital in Utica by family members around 12:30 p.m. Monday. Leonard, who was beaten badly, was originally thought to be a gunshot victim. He later died at the hospital. Police say that Leonard's 17-year-old brother was also assaulted and is currently in serious condition in the hospital.

Syracuse.com is reporting that four other church member were arrested and charged after allegedly taking part in the assault. Both Bruce and Deborah Leonard were charged with first-degree manslaughter.

Oneida County District Attorney Scott McNamara said he would not comment on the circumstances surrounding the assault or the criminal histories of the defendants.