State Health Department investigates choking death at Syracuse nursing home

Syracuse (WSYR-TV) -- The State Health Department is investigating a death at a Syracuse nursing home.

A resident of Loretto Cunnigham's Skilled Nursing building choked to death, according to health department officials.

Neither the state nor Loretto will discuss how it happened.

A spokesperson for Loretto told NewsChannel 9 conditions at the nursing home placed the resident in immediate jeopardy.

It’s one of the two most serious violations the state can issue.

A Loretto spokesperson also said that a plan to correct the problem is in place and has been reviewed and approved by the state.