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Parents Of L.I. Teen Who Died During School Trip To California Plan To Sue

SEAFORD, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- The parents of a Long Island teenager who died during a school band trip to California are planning to file a lawsuit over their son's death.

Joseph Tutaj died suddenly on Feb. 19 while in Los Angeles to perform at Disneyland with the Seaford High School marching band. Tutaj came down with chills, cough, fever and suddenly collapsed.

Autopsy results showed that Tutaj, a popular trumpet player, died of a strep infection.

L.I. Parents Plan To Sue Over Son's Death

Lawyer Jack Grossman said a notice of claim will be filed against the Seaford School District for failure to supervise the 15 year old and legal action is possible against a California hospital which he says didn't properly diagnose or treat the teen, 1010 WINS' Mona Rivera reported.

Joseph was a rising star in the school band, playing both the trumpet and the French horn. He also had participated in Model Congress, the Boy Scouts and math competitions.

His death was the the third tragedy for the Tutaj family.

His father is battling stage four cancer; the family also lost their home during Superstorm Sandy.

A memorial fund has been set up to help the family. For more information on how to donate, click here.

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