(LOOTPRESS) – The Natalie Cochran murder trial continued on its fourth day with key testimony from medical and forensic experts, shedding light on the mysterious death of Michael Cochran.
Medical Examiner’s Testimony
Dr. Piotr Kubiczek, who performed Michael Cochran’s autopsy seven months after his death, revealed that he could not determine a cause of death due to the advanced state of decomposition. “Moderate decomposition had set in, making it impossible to confirm whether insulin was used or pinpoint an injection site,” Kubiczek stated. His official report concluded the cause and manner of death as “undetermined.”
Endocrinologist’s Expert Opinion
Dr. Diane Krieger, an endocrinologist and expert in diabetes, provided a critical perspective on Michael’s hospitalization on February 6, 2019. According to Krieger, Michael’s blood glucose level was recorded at 21 mg/dL, a dangerously low figure compared to the normal range of 80–100 mg/dL. Krieger testified that such severe hypoglycemia could have been caused by a massive dose of insulin.
She noted, however, that specific tests to confirm whether insulin was the cause of Michael’s hypoglycemia were not performed before treatment began. “Other potential causes of hypoglycemia, such as severe malnutrition or drugs, did not appear to be factors in this case,” Krieger explained. She further opined that Michael’s death was likely related to hypoglycemia, which caused cerebral edema, or swelling of the brain.
Forensic Evidence Analysis
FBI forensic examiner Earl Gliem testified about his analysis of vials recovered from Natalie Cochran’s home. Gliem concluded that the cap on a vial containing insulin had been punctured, a detail that could prove significant in the prosecution’s case.
Case Background
Natalie Cochran, a former pharmacist, is accused of murdering her husband, Michael Cochran, under suspicious circumstances in 2019. The prosecution alleges she administered a lethal dose of insulin to Michael, leading to his death.
As the trial progresses, the jury is expected to weigh the expert testimony and evidence presented, with the defense likely to challenge the findings in the coming days. The trial continues today.
