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Costa Rican Official Provides Key Updates on Ongoing Investigation
A spokesperson for Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency (JIA) has confirmed that the autopsy results for a recent death investigation will be delayed by several months. This announcement comes a day after the resort where the involved family was staying issued a statement. Juan Pablo Alvarado Garcia, the JIA representative, attributed the delay to a significant increase in regional crime rates.
Autopsy Results Postponed Due to High Crime Volume
According to Alvarado Garcia, a surge in homicides, stemming from territorial disputes between drug gangs, is causing considerable strain on forensic services. Speaking to DailyMail.com, he stated, “We are experiencing a rise in homicides as drug cartels clash over territory, and each of these cases necessitates an autopsy.”
Forensic Backlog Reported Amidst Increased Killings
Alvarado Garcia further explained that while an autopsy has been conducted, the comprehensive analysis and subsequent results will be delayed. “I can confirm that the autopsy on the individual has been performed,” he stated, “however, the complete analysis and findings, like all cases, will require a minimum of two to three months due to the current surge in killings, leading to a backlog of cases. This is the current situation.”
Absence of Drug or Alcohol Indicators in Death
In a clarifying statement, the JIA spokesperson affirmed that initial findings have shown no indication that the death was connected to recreational drug use or alcohol consumption.
Body Repatriation Awaits US Embassy Processing
Despite the delayed results, Alvarado Garcia clarified that because “all necessary samples” were collected during the autopsy, the body “can be returned to the United States.” However, the family is currently awaiting the completion of their request processing by the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica.