Three internationally accredited forensic pathologists have concluded that 11-year-old Adrianna Younge died as a result of drowning, and have ruled out both sexual assault and drowning by force.
The findings were disclosed during a press conference on Monday evening at State House by President Dr Irfaan Ali and Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony. The announcement followed a detailed post-mortem examination conducted by the independent experts earlier in the day.
The autopsy was performed by Dr Glenn A. Rudner of Mount Sinai Hospital, New York; Dr Shubhakar Karra Paul, a government-appointed pathologist from Barbados; and Dr Gary L. Collins, Chief Medical Examiner for the State of Delaware, who was chosen by Adrianna’s family.
Family’s lawyer says pathologists ‘worked in tandem’ for autopsy of Adrianna Younge
President Ali revealed that the autopsy began around 13:20 hrs and was carried out with the aim of identifying any signs of trauma, injuries, or sexual violence, as well as collecting forensic samples and determining the cause of death. The procedure was thoroughly documented via photographs and video.
In their preliminary findings, the pathologists confirmed that there were no signs of trauma or sexual assault, Adrianna’s body bore no fractures or broken bones, markings observed on her skin were consistent with death by drowning, and there was no evidence to suggest drowning by force.
The experts, however, were unable to establish an exact time of death as the body was in a state of advanced decomposition.
Toxicology tests are still pending and will form part of the final report.
Once completed and within the confines of the law, this report will be shared with Adrianna’s family and, according to President Ali, be made available, at least in part, for public scrutiny.
Speaking earlier on behalf of the Younge family, attorney Darren Wade echoed the pathologists’ conclusions, stating that the post-mortem was both “meticulous and comprehensive.”
He also noted that the pathologists had initially planned to hold a media briefing to answer questions and elaborate on their findings. However, safety concerns, amid ongoing unrest and public tensions surrounding the case, prompted them to forgo that engagement.
Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, who joined the president at the press conference, reaffirmed the high credentials of the pathologists involved, stating that all were “highly qualified and experienced professionals” in their field.
The investigation into Adrianna Younge’s death remains active, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and urging the public to allow due process to unfold.
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