Costa Rican Authorities Announce Delay in Autopsy Results
Amid ongoing inquiries into a recent incident, a Costa Rican official has confirmed significant delays in the release of autopsy findings. Juan Pablo Alvarado Garcia, a representative for Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ), stated that the examination results for a pending case will be postponed by several months. This delay is attributed to a surge in criminal activity in the region, causing a substantial backlog in forensic examinations.
Homicide Increase Causes Forensic Backlog
Speaking to DailyMail.com, Alvarado Garcia explained the strain on forensic resources. “We are experiencing an escalation in homicides as drug factions contend for dominance,” he stated. “Each of these cases necessitates a post-mortem examination.”
The official elaborated, “I can affirm that an autopsy has been conducted, but the complete analysis and findings, similar to all cases, will require a minimum of two to three months due to the continuous killings generating a backlog of cases. This is the current situation.”
No Indication of Drugs or Alcohol in Death
Despite the delay in comprehensive results, Alvarado Garcia clarified a key aspect of the investigation. He confirmed that preliminary assessments have not indicated any connection between the death under investigation and the use of recreational drugs or alcohol.
Body Repatriation Awaits US Embassy Processing
While the final autopsy report is pending, the official noted that the necessary samples for the examination have been collected. Consequently, the body can be returned to the United States. However, the repatriation process is currently awaiting completion by the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica, which is processing the formal request.