Another life lost on DHS's watch

According to the statements, it appeared that the counselor, though not sitting on Leach, was putting his weight across him, while bowing his arms back, Prentice said.

That may have crushed Leach's diaphragm, he said.

According to a digital timer on the video, the counselor and the nurse stayed in the room with Leach for 20 minutes. Finally, they emerged and frantically began seeking a defibrillator.

Prentice said he could not say how long Leach was under restraint.

According to a 2006 report on restraint techniques issued by Pennsylvania child-welfare officials, "research indicates that most deaths occur within the first six minutes of restraint."

As yet, the medical examiner has not determined the cause of death. Toxicological results are not back.

An autopsy did find that Leach, like Linda Harris, had an enlarged heart. His body bore no bruises or signs of having been choked, Prentice said.

Prentice said he was deeply troubled at the second death of a teenager in the facility. He said he expected a long investigation that would focus in part on the training given the two counselors, both new hires.

"We have a a lot more to do," he said. "We've got to stop this. One is too many. Two is ridiculous."

Read a panel's report on DHS's failures, and recent news coverage, at http://go.philly.com/dhs

at 215-854-2473 or johnsullivan@phillynews.com.

Inquirer staff writer Nancy Phillips contributed to this article.