As of Monday, the total number of U.S. deaths from COVID-19 had exceeded 441,000. That includes some 43,178 in New York State alone. These are staggering numbers that continue to rise.

As we continue to wait for widespread distribution of the vaccine in more meaningful numbers, we ponder the endless question: how many of these deaths could have been avoided?

The number is very likely incalculable. We’ve spent nearly a year questioning the response - or lack thereof - from the previous administration. We’ve heard questions and concerns over the current administration’s strategy in rolling out the vaccine, and we’ve heard the calls for investigation into Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s decision to send COVID patients back into nursing homes following their release from the hospital.

In spite of the grim news that we have come to expect, few New Yorkers were fully prepared for the report released last week by Letitia James, New York State Attorney General. In her report, the AG indicated that the New York State Health Department had underreported COVID-19 nursing home and care facility deaths by as much as 50 percent. The discrepancy in reporting the numbers suggests a coverup.

This is unacceptable and appalling. This is murder.

It was clearly a mistake to send COVID patients back into nursing homes that are often understaffed and inhabited by a vulnerable population that has been separated from family members and guests for much of this pandemic.The governor, who has had his moments in the national spotlight over the past 10 months for his COVID response, needs to be held accountable for this one.