Forensic analysis

YOKNAPATAWPHA COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT

Investigating Officer(s): Det. T. Armstrong, Det. S. Murphy
Incident No.: 001019-28B-2022
Case Description: Andrea Stover death investigation

The State Crime Lab provided preliminary findings from their rush toxicologic analysis of samples collected from Andrea Stover's body at autopsy.

EVIDENCE ANALYZED

Blood Collected at Autopsy

The victim's serum sample was subjected to ion chromatography/mass spectrometry.

A peak at 89.2 m/z, subsequently identified as oxalate, was detected at ~5X the normal (~0.16mcg/ml) serum concentration.

Urine Collected at Autopsy

A portion of the victim's urine sample was then subjected to a colorimetric oxalate test.

If oxalate is present, it reacts with oxalate oxidase in the presence of oxygen to form hydrogen peroxide and carbon dioxide. The hydrogen peroxide further reacts with two chemicals (MBTH and DMAB) to form an indamine dye that is detected at 590nm.

Oxalate concentration in the urine was determined to be 73mg/L. Calcium oxalate crystals were also apparent after microscopic examination of the urine.

Conclusion:

Both the blood and urine analysis revealed a higher than normal presence of oxalate in the system. While an abnormally high level of oxalate is present in the victim’s system, it is not at such a concentration to cause death. Oxalic acid (oxalate) is found in plants such as beets, rhubarb, and spinach. Furthermore, ethylene glycol, if ingested, is metabolized to oxalic acid (oxalate).

Oxalic acid (oxalate) is found in plants such as beets, rhubarb, and spinach. Furthermore, ethylene glycol, if ingested, is metabolized to oxalic acid (oxalate).

ATTEST

I certify that I performed the above analysis and explanation and that the above is an accurate summary of the analysis results.

//Francis K. Dupin
Senior Examiner